Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
(sigh tow MEG a low VI rus)
CMV is a virus that is transmitted through many bodily fluids. It is also sexually transmitted. Every year, CMV causes permanent disability, including hearing loss and mental retardation, for 4,000 to 7,000 babies. It is the most common infection in the U.S. that is spread from women to the developing fetus — from 10 to 20 percent of infants born to women with CMV become infected. CMV is also very dangerous for people with weakened immune systems. It can cause blindness and mental disorders. Like many other viruses, CMV can remain in the body for life.
Common symptoms — if they occur
There are usually no symptoms with the first infection. But reinfection with CMV, or infection with other sexually transmitted organisms such as HIV and hepatitis B, may reactivate the virus and cause illness. Symptoms include
- swollen glands, fatigue, fever, and general weakness — CMV causes eight percent of the cases of mononucleosis
- irritations of the digestive tract, nausea, diarrhea
- loss of vision
How CMV is spread
In saliva, semen, blood, cervical and vaginal secretions, urine, and breast milk by
- close personal contact
- vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse
- blood transfusion and sharing IV drug equipment
- pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding
Between 40 and 80 percent of Americans get CMV through contact with other children's saliva by the time they reach puberty. Adults, however, usually become reinfected through sexual activity.
Diagnosis: blood test
Treatment: There is no cure. Symptoms may be managed with a variety of intravenous drugs. Treatment is not successful during pregnancy.
Protection: Condoms may reduce the risk of CMV during vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse, but kissing and other intimate touching can spread the virus.
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