To avoid medical conditions like secondary encephalitis in a newborn baby, healthcare professionals may take into account a mother’s health condition and any bacterial or viral infections that may be passed to the child during delivery. Failure to do so might be considered medical negligence and as a result, could lead to compensation through an Ohio medical malpractice claim.

What is secondary encephalitis? 

Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain as a result of infection. In a newborn it may be the result of the mother transmitting a viral or bacterial infection to the child. There are two types of encephalitis.

One is primary, which is caused by an infection directly affecting the brain. The other is secondary encephalitis, which may be the result of an immune response to infection in another part of the body.

Can secondary encephalitis be caused by Ohio medical malpractice? 

In some cases, yes, this condition may be the result of malpractice. For example, if a mother has a known infection such as Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) while pregnant that may be passed to the child during delivery, and doctors do not take adequate steps to prevent transmission, it may be considered negligence.

Further, if a child develops an infection as a result of exposure in the hospital or the doctors do not properly respond to a bacterial or viral infection in the newborn that leads to serious complications, parents may seek compensation for damages through an Ohio medical malpractice claim.

An attorney at Mellino Robenalt LLC can help parents pursue a malpractice claim against the negligent healthcare professional if they suspect negligence caused or contributed to their child’s condition. Parents can call 440-333-3800 to set up a consultation to discuss details of a case of negligence that has contributed to a viral infection, development of secondary encephalitis, or other serious conditions.