A mother from New South Wales is sharing her son Alex’s story to raise awareness about the risks of the cold sore virus after her 14-month-old was diagnosed with HSV keratitis. A condition many associate with simple cold sores in adults, this virus has had ongoing impacts on Alex, including vision impairment and recurring health issues.
The first signs
In September 2023, Alex’s mum noticed that he was unusually lethargic, not eating or drinking, and vomiting. Concerned, she took him to the hospital, where doctors initially suspected a viral infection and admitted Alex for dehydration treatment.
Alex’s condition worsened. His high fevers persisted. “He was sweating, losing weight, and still couldn’t eat or drink,” his mother recalled. After a few days, she noticed a small ulcer on his tongue, which can be common symptom of illness in children.
However, the ulcer rapidly grew in size, prompting further concern. Upon re-examination, the doctor found Alex’s mouth covered in painful sores, with ulcers lining his gums, throat, and tongue. A swab test was done—Alex had contracted the herpes simplex virus (HSV), commonly known for causing cold sores.
Initial Treatment
Treatment was started immediately, and after a week in the hospital, Alex was finally allowed to go home. Just days after returning home, Alex’s condition took another turn. He became extremely sensitive to light, and his left eye turned red, swollen, and watery. Concerned, his mother took him to a GP, where he was diagnosed with conjunctivitis.
A Second Opinion
Her instinct told her something was wrong, though, and she sought a second opinion.
The second doctor, knowing Alex’s recent experience with HSV, thought it might be HSV keratitis, a serious eye condition linked to the cold sore virus. Prompt treatment is needed as it can cause scarring on the cornea if left untreated.
Answers + a Diagnosis
After a quick referral to the hospital, the diagnosis was confirmed—Alex had HSV keratitis. He was admitted again and began treatment. After a few days, he was able to go home, though his mum was told that this condition will be ongoing throughout his life. So far, Alex has had four flare-ups, with each one leaving scarring to his eye.
“It’s been a year since his first diagnosis, and every time he gets sick, the cold sores flare up on his face,” his mother said. “We don’t know yet how much vision he’s lost in his left eye, and we’re bracing ourselves for future complications.”
The Road Ahead
Now, Alex’s mum is sharing their story to educate others about the potential severity of HSV in infants and young children. Many people are unaware that the virus, which typically causes minor sores on the lips in adults, but can pose a much more serious threat to babies and infants. “This isn’t just about a harmless sore on your lips—it can have lifelong consequences,” she warned. “Something as simple as kissing a baby while you have a cold sore could impact their health forever.”
Read our blog on preventing the spread of cold sores to little ones here.
