A couple from Coldwaltham, Sussex, is urging parents to be extra cautious after losing their baby daughter, Violet, to a herpes infection—likely passed through a simple kiss.
Hayley Riches and Dimitri Constantinou were devastated when their one-month-old daughter, Violet, passed away despite treatment in multiple hospitals. The herpes virus, often harmless in adults, can be deadly to newborns whose immune systems are not yet fully developed.
“After what happened to Violet, we’ve always been scared,” Dimitri shared. “Even with our daughter Lily now, we’re still careful because you never know what viruses are out there.”
Their message is echoed by The Lullaby Trust, which warns that even mild illnesses in adults can be life-threatening for babies. The charity advises visitors to THINK, wash HANDS, and avoid KISSES—especially in the baby’s first few weeks.
Public health expert Ellen Lithgow adds: “If you’re unwell, even with something minor, stay away from newborns until you’re better.”
Hayley and Dimitri never discovered exactly how Violet contracted the virus, but they hope their painful experience will help protect other families from the heartbreak they endured.
