HOLON, Israel (VINnews) — A two-week-old infant has been hospitalized with a severe herpes infection following a bris milah (ritual circumcision), according to The Jerusalem Post.

Doctors at Wolfson Medical Center said the virus spread to the baby’s central nervous system, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition for newborns. The infant was admitted after developing lesions at the circumcision site and rapidly worsening symptoms.

Dr. Diana Tasher, head of the pediatric department and a specialist in pediatric infectious diseases, described the case as deeply troubling. She warned that the infection was linked to a circumcision practice involving direct oral suction, also known as metzitzah b’peh. “It is important to avoid this practice because of the medical risks involved,” Tasher said. “Parents must be aware of the issue and make sure the suction stage is not performed by mouth.”

Testing confirmed the virus in the infant’s cerebrospinal fluid, indicating the infection had reached the central nervous system. Authorities have stressed the use of sterile alternatives to reduce risk and prevent transmission of herpes and other infections.

Doctors said herpes infections can be especially dangerous for newborns, as the virus can quickly spread and lead to severe complications, including neurological damage. The infant is receiving intravenous antiviral treatment and remains under close medical supervision, according to the report.