Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a widespread virus that can infect anyone, regardless of age or health status. About 50% of adults in Canada have already had it. CMV belongs to the same virus family as herpes, but as a distant cousin – however, it is very different from the herpes virus and, in particular, it is not a sexually transmitted disease. Most people contract CMV without knowing it, as symptoms are often mild or nonexistent. However, CMV can pose serious risks for certain groups, particularly pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. Once a person is infected with CMV, the virus stays in their body for life. The virus can reactivate without the person being sick. Individuals can also be reinfected by a different strain of the virus.

Our research team has detected fragments of the CMV virus in your saliva. It is normal for people infected with CMV to intermittently excrete the virus in their saliva.

Since the virus is very common, it is difficult to determine how and when you contracted it. However, know that CMV is primarily transmitted through the ingestion of breast milk from an infected woman or through contact of mucous membranes, such as the eyes and mouth, with the saliva or urine of an infected person (for example, the saliva of an infected child entering your mouth when sharing the same spoon).

In healthy individuals: There is no specific treatment required, as the infection is often asymptomatic or mild. In immunocompromised individuals: Antivirals may be used to treat severe infections. In pregnant women: If a CMV infection occurs during pregnancy, antivirals may be administered in certain cases. Timely management is therefore crucial.

There is currently no vaccine for CMV, but preventive measures, such as hand hygiene, can reduce the risk of transmission, especially for pregnant women or immunocompromised individuals.

Unlike herpes, CMV does not cause oral or genital lesions.

CMV excretion in saliva has no impact on health. However, if it is accompanied by symptoms such as prolonged fever, swollen lymph nodes, and/or chronic fatigue, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Unlike COVID, CMV is not a respiratory virus. Therefore, you do not need to wear a mask. There is no need to inform your loved ones. It is recommended that you avoid sharing your saliva (eating with the same utensil, kissing) with individuals at risk: pregnant women and immunocompromised people.

The risks are the same as for the general population. Indeed, having previously had CMV does not protect you from reinfection. Therefore, during pregnancy, CMV prevention measures will also be recommended to you (see the CMV Canada website).

Given that CMV is not very contagious, you do not need to inform your employer or be removed from your workplace.