You may have never heard of cytomegalovirus, or CMV, but it is the most common virus transmitted from mother to child in the United States. Although most babies don’t suffer lasting effects, about 1 in 750 will develop permanent disabilities due to the virus.
CMV is a member of the herpes family of viruses. The virus is passed by bodily fluids, including blood, saliva and even breastmilk after the baby is born. Approximately one third of women infected with the virus will pass it to their unborn children.
About 8,000 babies born each year suffer from disabilities related to CMV exposure in the womb. Some of the potentially serious disabilities the virus can cause include mental impairment, hearing loss, vision loss, problems with coordination, small head size and seizures. A smaller number result in the death of the baby.
There are some temporary problems which can be present at birth, but don’t cause lifelong disabilities. These include smaller than normal size, jaundice, purple blotches on the skin as well as problems with the liver or lungs.
There is no effective treatment at this time, so prevention is thought to be the key to keeping babies safe. Since bodily fluids are the source of transmission, good hygiene can help prevent transmission of the virus. Use proper hand washing techniques and avoid contact with bodily fluids. Don’t share drinks and be careful about exposure to diapers or saliva. If you work in a daycare or have a child attending one, this is an important consideration.
There is a blood test that can show if you have been exposed to the virus. If so and you’ve built up antibodies, your baby will most likely not be permanently damaged. The greatest risk comes to mothers who are exposed during pregnancy, since they haven’t built up any antibodies to protect the baby. For this reason, prevention is the best treatment.
Related Articles:
When the Group B Strep Test is Positive
Pregnant Women Should Have Thyroid Checked