Prevention and management of five viral infections in neonates

摘要

Viruses can cause infections in neonates during pregnancy, delivery, or after birth. Viral infections can be severe, and therefore it is crucial to identify them so as to promptly establish a specific management plan. Human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, and varicella virus are particularly significant in neonates given both their potential clinical severity and the possibility to prevent and/or to treat these infections during the neonatal period. The optimal management of the pregnant woman, the fetus, and the neonate requires good recognition and knowledge by all the professionals involved in maternal and neonatal care. In particular, several measures have to be considered to reduce the risks for neonates, including treatment of the pregnant woman, cesarean section, antiviral administration during delivery, eariy specific treatment of the neonate, and breastfeeding conditions. Moreover, a prolonged follow-up of infected neonates during childhood is necessary since some complications may be delayed. Viral infections can be of particular severity in neonates and can induce morbidity or disability. These infections have to be considered with the same attention as bacterial infections in neonates.