Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) is a rare disease, but it is the most common form of sporadic encephalitis. HSE is transmitted through direct contact and developing nosocomial HSE is rarely reported in the literature. Nosocomial HSE is difficult to diagnose due to its non-specific clinical features. In this article, we present a case of nosocomial HSE that was responsible for grave consequence. We also explore its causes, outcome, and give recommendations to avoid such fatal occurrence. We stress on strict adherence to the standard precautions and preventive control measures.
Keywords: Encephalitis; Herpes simplex virus; Hospital-acquired infection; Nosocomial infection.
Copyright © 2016 King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.