A simple kiss changed Juwan Saaiman’s life forever. The two-year-old from Namibia lost sight in one eye after contracting herpes from someone with a cold sore—a danger many parents overlook.
Juwan’s parents initially thought his eye irritation was just a minor issue. But when it quickly escalated into severe pain and swelling, doctors delivered the devastating news: HSV-1, the cold sore virus, had infected his eye. Despite multiple surgeries, the damage was permanent.
Health professionals emphasize that while HSV-1 is usually harmless in adults, it can be devastating for young children. The virus spreads through saliva and can lead to serious eye infections, brain inflammation, or even death in severe cases.
Juwan’s tragedy highlights the importance of protecting children from unnecessary exposure. Parents should be cautious about allowing kisses from anyone with cold sores and seek immediate medical attention if their child shows signs of infection. What seems like a small risk can have irreversible consequences.
