A Kiss May Have Caused a Baby's Tragic Death. Now, Her Parents Are Warning Others

An Iowa newborn developed meningitis brought on by the herpes virus, which was likely transmitted by a family friend or relative. Here's what adults needs to know about how vulnerable infants are, and the steps that can keep them safe.

The headlines earlier this week about an 18-day-old baby in Iowa who died from meningitis are not only heartbreaking, but also alarming. Doctors say the infant, Mariana Sifrit, developed the deadly infection after being exposed to the herpes virus—likely via a kiss from a well-meaning adult.

Mariana was born healthy, according to news reports, but she became ill and stopped breathing about a week later. She was rushed to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with meningitis HSV1, a swelling around the brain caused by the same virus that triggers genital herpes and cold sores.