Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a herpes virus that commonly spreads through bodily fluids and can be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her unborn child. It is a widespread virus that infects a large portion of the population.
According to StatPearls Publishing, in industrialised countries, where sanitation and hygiene standards are generally higher, 60–70% of adults will have come into contact with CMV at some point in their lives. On the other hand, in emerging countries, where living conditions may be more crowded and sanitation practices may differ, the chance of encountering CMV is much higher, close to 100%.
Interestingly, CMV may be hard to track as it can showcase no symptoms, or if symptoms do occur, they can be mild enough to be overlooked. In this article, we will touch upon every aspect of the virus, from symptoms to risk factors to treatment and prevention.
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What Is Cytomegalovirus Herpes Virus?
CMV, also known as human herpesvirus 5 (HHV-5), belongs to the herpesvirus family, a group of viruses known for their ability to cause lifelong infections.
It is believed that after the initial infection, which often occurs during childhood, the virus goes dormant and hides within certain cells. While inactive, CMV poses little threat to healthy individuals. However, this virus can wreak havoc under certain circumstances, including pregnancy and weakened immune systems.
As discussed, the virus can spread through bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, urine, semen, and breast milk.
What Are The Symptoms Of CMV?
In most cases, CMV infections are asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms and can be easily missed. However, if symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Swollen glands
- Joint and muscle pain
- Low appetite and weight loss
It is important to note that symptoms may vary from person to person and can also differ depending on the health status of a person.
Who Is Most At Risk?
CMV itself is quite common, but the risk of serious illness from CMV depends on several factors.
Research suggests CMV infection can be asymptomatic in healthy individuals. However, for immunocompromised patients, such as people with HIV and those undergoing chemotherapy, they can be life-threatening. Complications include:
- Vision loss
- Digestive system problems, including colitis, esophagitis, and hepatitis
- Nervous system problems, including brain inflammation or encephalitis
- Pneumonia
According to the Mayo Clinic, newborns who became infected with congenital CMV before they were born are also likely to experience certain complications. These include:
- Hearing loss
- Intellectual disability
- Vision problems
- Seizures
- Lack of coordination
- Weaknesses or problems using muscles
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Yellow skin and eyes (jaundice)
Lastly, infants who become infected during birth or shortly afterward through breast milk can also experience serious illness.
How To Treat The Condition?
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure or vaccine to treat or prevent CMV, respectively.
For healthy individuals with a strong immune system, the body usually clears the initial infection on its own. However, for people at high risk of complications, such as pregnant women, transplant recipients, or those with weakened immunity, treatment with antiviral medications may be crucial. Certain medications cannot cure CMV but can slow the virus's growth and help manage symptoms.
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Can CMV Be Prevented?
Here are some ways to reduce the risk of developing CMV:
- Maintaining hand hygiene by washing them regularly with soap and water
- Avoid sharing utensils even with your children.
- Avoid kissing a young child.
- Avoid any form of bodily fluid contact, including tears or saliva.
- Dispose of diapers and other items carefully.
- Ensure safe sex to prevent the spread of CMV to your partner.
Conclusion
CMV is a very common infection that mostly does not show any symptoms, especially in healthy individuals. However, people with a weakened immune system, pregnant women, and infants should be more careful, as they can be subject to serious complications. The key is to curb the spread of the virus. As there is no cure or vaccine to prevent the infection, one must be aware of their condition and ensure that they do not transmit it to others. Maintain proper hygiene and get yourself regularly tested to know if you have the infection.