Cold sores and children

Although cold sores are common in adults, they’re rare in babies under six months because of antibodies in their systems received from their mothers.

But they can develop them, as cold sores are highly contagious and passed through contact with infected lips – and babies and children are kissed a lot. It can be difficult to prevent them because the adult who passes on the virus might not have any visible cold sores at the time.

Cold sores are caused the herpes virus, though it’s a different type from the one that causes genital herpes. Once your baby has the virus it may lay dormant but it can also manifest into cold sores from time to time, usually when his immune system is weak. They’ll appear as tiny red blisters that cluster around the lips and sometimes on the roof of the mouth. The first time your baby gets cold sores they may be accompanied by swollen gums and mouth and possibly a fever; but after that initial attack the cold sores will appear on their own with no other symptoms, and usually last for seven to 10 days.

Treatment

Cold sores can be dangerous for babies under three months old – because their immune system is underdeveloped, it’s possible for the virus to spread to their eyes and organs. If you notice your newborn or young baby has one, contact your pediatrician. It’s also possible a painful cold sore could put your baby off feeding so if his appetite seems poor, call your pediatrician.

Wash your baby’s hands often if he has a cold sore and put scratch mitts or socks on his hands to prevent him from touching it and spreading the virus. If your baby develops a sore on his eye, your pediatrician will likely prescribe anti-virals.

Cold sores do clear up on their own but you can ease any discomfort by giving your child a painkiller, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. With older children, an icepack can also reduce soreness and tingling.

Prevention

If you have a cold sore, avoid kissing your baby – this goes for family and friends too. Keep in mind though that it’s possible to pass on the virus without having a cold sore, so wash your hands before touching your baby and ask anyone else who’s caring for him to do so too.

Make sure your older child gets into the habit of washing his hands and remind him to avoid touching the cold sore then touching his eyes. Teach him not to share drinks or utensils and not to kiss anyone if he has a cold sore. Notify his daycare center/provider or preschool if he has cold sores so that they can wash his hands frequently too.

Outbreaks can be triggered by sunlight so if your baby or child has had a cold sore before, shield his face from bright sunlight by putting a sun hat and lip balm with a high SPF on him when you go out on sunny days.

The information on this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.