Overview of Neonatal Infections By Brenda L Tesini, MD, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry Reviewed / Revised Jul 2022 | Modified Sep 2022 View Patient Education Symptoms and Signs Diagnosis Treatment Neonatal infection can be acquired In utero transplacentally or through ruptured membranes In the birth canal during delivery (intrapartum) From external sources after birth (postpartum) Common viral agents include herpes simplex viruses, HIV, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and hepatitis B.