Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common virus that can infect anyone. It is a member of the herpesvirus family and is one of the most common viruses found in humans. CMV is spread through bodily fluids, such as saliva, urine, blood, and breast milk, and can be transmitted from person to person through close contact.

Symptoms

Most people who are infected with CMV do not show any symptoms, but some may experience:

• Mild flu-like symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, and swollen glands
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Joint pain
• Enlarged liver or spleen
• Mononucleosis-like symptoms, such as swollen lymph nodes and an enlarged liver and spleen

In people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients, CMV can cause more severe symptoms, including:

• Pneumonia
• Retinitis (inflammation of the retina)
• Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver)
• Colitis (inflammation of the colon)
• Neurological problems, such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord)

Treatments

Treatment for CMV depends on the severity of the symptoms and the individual's overall health. In healthy people, CMV infections often resolve on their own without treatment.

For people with weakened immune systems or severe symptoms, antiviral medications may be prescribed to help manage the infection. These medications include:

• Ganciclovir (Cytovene)
• Valganciclovir (Valcyte)
• Foscarnet (Foscavir)
• Cidofovir (Vistide)

In addition to antiviral medications, other treatments may be used to manage specific symptoms or complications of CMV infection. For example:

• Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat secondary bacterial infections
• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may be used to manage pain and inflammation
• Oxygen therapy may be used to help with breathing difficulties

Prevention

To reduce the risk of CMV infection, it is recommended to:

• Practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and thoroughly
• Avoid close contact with people who have weakened immune systems or are infected with CMV
• Avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils with others
• Avoid kissing or having intimate contact with someone who has CMV
• Use condoms during sex to reduce the risk of transmission

Congenital CMV Infection

Congenital CMV infection occurs when a baby is born with CMV, which can happen if the mother is infected with CMV during pregnancy. This type of infection can cause serious health problems for the baby, including:

• Birth defects, such as hearing loss or vision impairment
• Developmental delays
• Learning disabilities
• Seizures
• Microcephaly (small head size)

To reduce the risk of congenital CMV infection, pregnant women should:

• Practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with people who have weakened immune systems or are infected with CMV
• Avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils with others
• Avoid kissing or having intimate contact with someone who has CMV
• Get tested for CMV if they are at high risk of infection

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Cytomegalovirus (CMV)?
A common virus that can infect anyone, belonging to the herpesvirus family.

How is CMV transmitted?
Through bodily fluids, such as saliva, urine, and blood, as well as organ transplants and breastfeeding.

What are the symptoms of CMV infection?
Often none, but may include fever, fatigue, and swollen glands, similar to mononucleosis.

Who is at risk for CMV infection?
Everyone, but particularly newborns, people with weakened immune systems, and organ transplant recipients.

Can CMV cause birth defects?
Yes, if a woman has a primary CMV infection during pregnancy, it may increase the risk of birth defects.

How is CMV diagnosed?
Through blood tests, urine tests, or tissue samples, which can detect the virus or antibodies against it.

Is there a treatment for CMV infection?
Antiviral medications may be used to treat severe cases, but most infections resolve on their own.

Can CMV be prevented?
Possibly, through good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with people who have the virus.

Is CMV a reportable disease?
In some jurisdictions, congenital CMV infection may be reportable to public health authorities.

What is the prognosis for someone with CMV infection?
Generally good, but may vary depending on the individual's overall health and the severity of the infection.