Protecting a newborn is paramount, a truth Hailey Riches, 25, tragically learned after her daughter, Violet-May Constantinou, succumbed to neonatal herpes at just one month old. This devastating experience has led Hailey to issue a vital warning to all, urging caution around vulnerable infants.
Violet-May seemed healthy after her emergency C-section on March 22, 2023, but within days, Hailey noticed concerning signs: her eight-day-old baby refused to feed and her skin developed a yellowish tint. Following a health visitor's advice, Hailey took Violet back to Worthing Hospital where initial checks for jaundice didn't fully capture the severity of the situation. Soon after, Violet's condition rapidly worsened, she developed a fever, and tests confirmed the unthinkable: she had contracted neonatal herpes (HSV-1), caused by the herpes simplex virus.
Neonatal herpes is a severe infection in newborns, typically transmitted through oral interactions like kissing, or sharing drinks or utensils. Even those without visible cold sores can unknowingly pass on the virus, making it incredibly dangerous for babies with undeveloped immune systems.
Violet was immediately given antiviral medication, but her health quickly deteriorated, leading to seizures. She was airlifted to Southampton Hospital for intensive care, where doctors discovered she was suffering from acute liver failure. Despite being placed on the highest priority list for a liver transplant in the UK, Violet's tiny body couldn't fight off the infection, and she passed away at one month old.
Hailey and Dimitri Constantinou, 30, Violet's heartbroken parents, were told that the exact source of the herpes could never be pinpointed. This ambiguity has fueled their determination to raise awareness. Hailey emphasizes that cold sores, even seemingly innocuous ones, can be deadly to newborns. She implores everyone to be protective of babies, stressing the importance of avoiding contact if you have a cold sore and always washing hands before holding a newborn.
The family's ordeal was "absolutely traumatizing," with Violet suffering from multiple organ failures and even a cardiac arrest. Hailey recounts the harrowing experience of watching her daughter's condition worsen daily until they had to say goodbye.
Despite the immense grief, Hailey and Dimitri welcomed another daughter, Lily, on August 16, 2024. This new joy came with understandable anxiety, as Hailey was "terrified" during Lily's first six weeks, a crucial period for a newborn's immune system. They were highly protective, ensuring no one kissed Lily and that hands were washed before holding her.
Hailey's message is clear: this isn't meant to scare new mothers, but rather to empower them and others to be vigilant. If a baby isn't feeling right, or if you yourself are unwell, be persistent in seeking medical attention. The family extends their gratitude to Southampton General Hospital, the Pediatric Unit, and the Ronald McDonald charity for their support during this tragic time. Their hope is that by sharing Violet-May's story, they can prevent other families from enduring such a devastating loss.
