Cytomegalovirus

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

A member of the HSV family

Another teratogen that can causes extensive damage to
a fetus
Produces very mild symptoms in an infected person but
may cause severe neurological damage in people with
weakened immune systems and in the newborn.
 There is no treatment for CMV
 HOW is it acquired or transmitted?

 It is not sexually transmitted

 Spreads from person to person by droplet infection
(ex. Sneezing)
 How does it affect the FETUS?

 If a women acquires a primary CMV infection during pregnancy

and the virus crosses the placenta the infant maybe born with
severe neurologic challenges:
- Hydrocephalus
- Microcephaly
- Spasticity
Or with eye damage
- Optic atrophy or chorioritinitis
 How to prevent?

 Wash hands thoroughly before eating

 Do not share food, drinks, eating utensils or toothbrush
with young children
 Avoid crowds of young children at daycare or nursery
school setting to help prevent exposure