Neonatal herpes 2
The study (run from January 2004 to 2007) aimed to estimate the current prevalence of neonatal HSV infection in the British Isles and distinguish the proportion attributable to HSV-1 and HSV-2. Explore the presentation of neonatal HSV infection and the management of diagnosed cases. Assess subsequent morbidity and mortality through the notifying paediatrician. Compare findings with the 1986-91 BPSU cohort, and with other INOPSU studies of HSV and inform the debate on antenatal screening.
Lead investigator
Dr P Tookey
About the study
Neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection was a rare but potentially devastating condition. It could follow primary or recurrent maternal infection, or be acquired postnatally. Early diagnosis was vital as antiviral therapy could significantly affect the outcome.
BPSU surveillance of neonatal HSV was undertaken between 1986 and 1991. Seventy-six cases were reported over the five-and-a-half-year period, and the estimated prevalence of neonatal infection was then 1 .65/100,000. Improvements in diagnostic techniques may also have impacted the reported prevalence of neonatal infection.
The study aimed to:
- Estimate the current prevalence of neonatal HSV infection in the British Isles, and distinguish the proportion attributable to HSV-1 and HSV-2.
- Explore the presentation of neonatal HSV infection and the management of diagnosed cases.
- Assess subsequent morbidity and mortality through the notifying paediatrician.
- Compare findings with the 1986-91 BPSU cohort, and with other INOPSU studies of HSV.
- Inform the debate on antenatal screening.
Duration
January 2004 – January 2007
Published papers
Support group
Herpes Viruses Association
Web: http://www.herpes.org.uk Email: info@herpes.org.uk