What is CMV?
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a widespread virus that can infect anyone, regardless of age or health. It is a virus belonging to the herpesvirus family. Once a person is infected with CMV, the virus remains in the body for life, but it is usually inactive in healthy individuals.
Most people become infected with CMV without knowing it, because symptoms are often mild or nonexistent. However, CMV can pose serious risks to certain groups, including pregnant women, newborns, and people with compromised immune systems.
Early childhood educators and professionals are at higher risk of contracting CMV because they are often in contact with young children, who may carry the virus without showing symptoms.
Symptoms of CMV
In healthy individuals, cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection often goes unnoticed because symptoms are usually 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 a wound with bodily fluids from an infected person, such as:
CMV can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.
CMV and pregnancy
CMV infection during pregnancy is of particular concern because the virus can be passed to the unborn baby, which 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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Death of the fetus
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 congenital CMV (cCMV) will result in lifelong disability
300-500
babies in Quebec are born with CMV 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. 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.
CMV Prevention
Prevention is the key to reducing the risk of infection, especially for at-risk populations. Here are some simple steps:
Hand hygiene: Wash your hands regularly.
Avoid sharing: Do not share food, drinks, or utensils.
Sexual precautions: Use condoms.
Why is it important to be concerned about CMV?
Although CMV is 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.