03/06/2026
A baby girl named Breelyn was born healthy.
But at just two days old, someone with an active cold sore kissed her on the mouth.
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). In adults it’s usually mild, often nothing more than an annoying blister. But in newborns it can be devastating.
Because Breelyn’s immune system was not yet developed, the virus spread through her body and reached her brain. She developed HSV encephalitis, a severe infection that causes swelling of the brain. She suffered seizures and permanent brain damage.
Doctors warn that newborns are extremely vulnerable in the first weeks of life. Their immune systems are immature, their skin and mucous membranes are delicate, and viruses that seem harmless to adults can become life threatening very quickly.
This is why parents ask people not to kiss their baby.
Not because they’re being rude.
Not because they’re “overprotective.”
But because they understand how fragile newborns really are.
If you have a cold sore or even think one might be coming DO NOT kiss a baby, if you are not the mother!
A simple kiss can sometimes carry unimaginable consequences.
Please share this or tag someone who needs this reminder.
One post might stop someone from kissing a newborn and protect a baby. 🖤
