Action needed on CMV

A new report is calling for more action to be undertaken in a bid to reduce the number of cases of infection in pregnancy caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV). Pregnant women are being urged to take steps to prevent the infection.

The report, published by CMV Action, says that around three out of every five people in the UK can expect to catch CMV at some point in their lives, and if this happens during pregnancy the effects can be devastating.

CMV is relatively unknown with few women being aware of the risks it carries, yet it affects around 1 in 1000 babies each year. Those affected will carry CMV for the rest of their lives, but will not display any signs or symptoms. The problems occur during pregnancy, as it poses a risk to the unborn baby.

Congenital CMV is one of the main causes of children being born with permanent disabilities and the report urges more action to be taken to educate and prevent the figures rising. CMV is spread by:

Close contact– CMV can be spread by close contact with bodily fluids such as urine, saliva, blood, faeces, tears, breast milk, semen and cervical secretions. You cannot catch CMV by being close to someone, but kissing, sharing food and drink utensils and sharing mouthed toys should be avoided.

Mother to newborn– CMV can be transmitted through breastmilk or during birth.

During pregnancy– this is known as congential CMV.

To read the full report, and for more information please see CMVaction.org.uk