An experimental model for disseminated herpesvirus infection of the neonate

Pregnant mice at 10 days of gestation were more susceptible to vaginal inoculation with herpesvirus, type 2, than were nonpregnant mice. This mouse model system also was used to compare delivery through a birth canal contaminated with herpesvirus, type 2, to delivery after maternal paranteral inoculation by the same virus. Approximately 26 per cent of newborn mice either died or had evidence of disseminated herpesvirus infections after delivering through a vagina inoculated with herpesvirus, whereas only 4 per cent of newborn mice died after subcutaneous inoculation of pregnant animals. Only 1 per cent of neonates delivered of subcutaneously inoculated pregnant mice had any evidence of herpesvirus infection. Pregnant mice immunized to herpesvirus, type 1, had significantly less newborn infection after delivery through a herpesvirus-inoculated birth canal when compared to nonimmunized mice.