Undeniably, babies are incredibly prone to any type of sickness and infection. This is due to the fact that their immune system is still developing, making their bodies feeble. One of the many infections that threaten your baby’s health is the so-called cold sore. Though, it is not that perilous but the virus could scatter through different body organs. That is when the health jeopardy starts.

Overview of the Cold Sore Infection

Also known as a fever blister, cold sore is defined as a diminutive fluid-filled swelling that appears near the lips. It is primary caused by the herpes simplex virus, which has two types. The virus that causes the cold sore is the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV type 1). The other type (HSV type 2) causes genital herpes. However, either of these two viruses could sore both the genital and facial areas.

Cold Sore Virus Accumulation

A baby can accumulate cold sore virus in different ways. These are depicted by the subsequent scenarios:

• During Birth. The virus that causes cold sore can be accumulated by the baby during birth. This is possible if the mother has genital herpes infection.
• Direct Contact. The baby can acquire the cold sore infection through direct contacts to the infected person. This would include sharing of utensils, cups, spoons, dribble toys or kissing. It could occur regardless if the sore is visible or not.

The simplex herpes virus is typically accumulated during childhood. At start, the baby may experience gum irritation, mouth soreness, sore throat, bloated lymph nodes and even fever. These are the main indications of primary herpes, which are considered mild and unnoticeable.

However, during the first six months the baby unlikely inherits cold sore because of the antibodies he acquire from his mother, which give him the defense. If unfortunately the baby is still less than 3 months and gets cold sore, it is recommended to see his doctor immediately, to prevent the virus from scattering to other body organs, particularly the brain. When this virus reaches the brain, it could cause severe harm, which can be critical and undeviating.

Similarly, the virus can extend through the eyes, which eventually would cause a serious eye infection called ocular herpes. When this occurs, call his doctor immediately for him t acquire prompt and precise cure. Doctors would give antiviral drugs that would avert the virus to blemish the cornea.

To stop the dispersal of infection to the eyes, wash your baby’s hands frequently, when he gets cold sore. Likewise, when he sleeps, be sure to put socks or undersized mittens on his hands.

The Remedy

As for the cure, aspirin should not be given to the baby for it may elicit the atypical syndrome (Reyes Syndrome) to transpire. It is considered odd but a life-threatening infirmity.

It is recommended to apply ice on the affected or sore area. You can also offer mild pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Yet, be sure to give him the appropriate dosage.

On the bright side, cold sore will just fade away. But still, parents can always put an instant end to their baby’s distress. This is the reason why parents take their babies to a doctor to guarantee a rapid recovery from the cold sore infection.

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