children s health issues
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infection in Newborns
Treatment of HSV Infection in Newborns
Acyclovir Newborns who have a widespread infection are given the antiviral medicationacyclovirby vein (intravenously) for 3 weeks and then by mouth for 6 months. Newborns who have a localized infection are givenacyclovirintravenously for 2 weeks. This medication does not cure the infection but helps keep it from spreading and limits the symptoms. Eye infections are treated withtrifluridine, iododeoxyuridine, or vidarabine drops as well. Additional care, such as fluids and breathing support, is provided as needed. 