What is CMV?
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a widespread virus that can infect anyone, regardless of age or state of health. It is a virus belonging to the herpesvirus family. Once a person is infected with CMV, the virus remains in their body for the rest of their life. The virus is generally inactive in healthy individuals, but can also reactivate. Individuals may also be reinfected with a different strain of the virus.
Most people contract CMV unknowingly, as symptoms are often mild or non-existent. However, CMV can present serious risks for certain groups, notably pregnant women, newborn babies and immunocompromised individuals.
Young children are often symptomless carriers of the virus, putting early childhood educators and professionals at risk of catching CMV.
Symptoms of CMV
In healthy individuals, cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection often goes undetected, as symptoms are generally mild.
Common symptoms may include:​
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Fatigue
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Mild fever
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Muscle and joint pain
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Swollen lymph nodes
How is CMV transmitted?
CMV is transmitted by direct contact of mucous membranes (mouth, eyes, vagina) or wounds with bodily fluids from an infected person, including:
CMV can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.
Cytomegalovirus and pregnancy
CMV infection during pregnancy is of particular concern because the virus can be transmitted to the unborn baby. This is known as congenital CMV (cCMV), and can lead to serious complications such as:
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Hearing disorders
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Low birth weight
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Developmental delay
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Microcephaly
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Convulsions
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Vision disorders
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Fetal death
CMV in figures
50-90%
of adults will catch it during their lifetime
1 in 200
Canadian newborns will be infected during pregnancy
1 in 5
cases of cCMV will result in lifelong disability
300-500
babies in Quebec are born with cCMV each year
How do I know if I have CMV?
Diagnosis of CMV is usually made through blood tests.
Healthy people may not be aware that they have a CMV infection, and treatment is not necessary.
However, in cases where CMV poses more serious risks (such as in immunocompromised individuals or newborns), antiviral treatment may be recommended.
In pregnant women, careful monitoring is essential if the virus is detected. Prenatal screening, such as amniocentesis, may be offered to assess risks to the baby.
Why is it important to be concerned about CMV?
Although CMV symptoms are often mild in healthy adults, its potential to cause serious complications in vulnerable people, including newborns, makes it a significant public health concern. By being informed, you can take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.