Cytomegalovirus or CMV is a common virus that affects people of all ages. In most cases, it doesn’t cause any symptoms and goes away on its own.

However, CMV can be a serious health risk for newborns, especially those born prematurely or with a weakened immune system. This article will discuss what CMV is, how it can be transmitted to newborns, and what parents can do to reduce the risk of their child contracting the virus.

What is CMV?

CMV is a member of the herpes virus family, which also includes the viruses that cause cold sores, genital herpes, and shingles. CMV is widespread and over half of all adults have been infected with the virus by age 40.

Once you’ve been infected, the virus stays in your body for the rest of your life. However, it’s usually dormant and doesn’t cause any symptoms.

How is CMV transmitted?

CMV is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as saliva, urine, blood, breast milk, and semen. The virus can be passed from a mother to her unborn child during pregnancy, through childbirth, and through breast milk.

Mothers who have never had the virus before are at the highest risk of passing it on to their baby. They can also get infected while caring for their newborn.

What are the symptoms of CMV in newborns?

Most newborns with CMV don’t have any symptoms. However, some babies may develop problems such as:.

Low birth weight
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Petechiae (tiny red or purple spots on the skin)
Hearing loss
Seizures
Mental disability

In some cases, CMV can be fatal for newborns with a weakened immune system.

How can parents reduce the risk of their child getting CMV?

There is no vaccine for CMV, so prevention is key. Parents can take the following steps to reduce the risk of their child contracting the virus:.

Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after changing diapers, feeding your baby, and blowing your nose.
Avoid sharing utensils, cups, and other items that may come into contact with saliva or urine.
Avoid kissing your baby on the mouth or near the eyes.
If you have symptoms of CMV, such as fever, sore throat, or swollen glands, avoid close contact with your baby until you have recovered.
If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, get tested for CMV.
If you test positive for CMV, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce the risk of passing the virus on to your baby.

What is the treatment for CMV in newborns?

There is no specific treatment for CMV in newborns. In most cases, the virus goes away on its own within a few weeks.

However, babies with symptoms may require treatment for their specific condition, such as medication for seizures or hearing aids for hearing loss.

Conclusion

CMV is a common virus that can be a serious health risk for newborns, especially those born prematurely or with a weakened immune system.

Parents can reduce the risk of their child contracting the virus by following simple steps such as washing their hands and avoiding close contact if they have symptoms. If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about testing for CMV and ways to reduce the risk of passing the virus on to your baby.