Herpes simplex virus infection in pregnancy and its management

Neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is considered to be rare in the UK, affecting less than 3 per 100,000 live births, but the true incidence is probably higher due to under-reporting. In contrast, neonatal HSV infection is more common in the USA affecting 1 per 7500 live births overall. Infection in neonates is frequently serious and may be fatal.