COMMON SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS: CYTOMEGALOVIRUS (CMV)
Cytomegalovirus (sigh-tow-MEG-a-low-VI-rus), or CMV, is an infection that is transmitted through many bodily fluids. It is also sexually transmitted. Every year, CMV causes permanent disability, including hearing loss and mental retardation, for 4,000 to 7,000 babies. It is the most common infection in the United States that is spread from a woman to the developing fetus—from 10 to 20 percent of infants born to women with CMV will become infected. CMV is also very dangerous for people with weakened immune systems. It can cause blindness and mental disorders. CMV can remain in the body for life.
Common Symptoms
• swollen glands, fatigue, fever, and general weakness. CMV causes 8 percent of the cases of mononucleosis.
• irritations of the digestive tract, nausea, diarrhea
• loss of vision
There are usually no symptoms with the first infection. But reinfection with CMV, or infection with other sexually transmitted infections such as HIV and hepatitis B, may reactivate the virus and cause illness.
How CMV Is Spread: In saliva, semen, blood, cervical and vaginal secretions, urine, and breast milk by:
• close personal contact
• vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse
• blood transfusion and sharing IV drug equipment
• pregnancy, childbirth, and breast-feeding
Between 40 and 80 percent of Americans get CMV through contact (usually through saliva) with other children by the time they reach puberty. Adults, however, usually get CMV through sexual activity.
Women who want to become pregnant and who may have the virus should consider testing for CMV
Diagnosis: Blood test.
Treatment: There is no cure. Symptoms may be managed with a variety of intravenous drugs, including foscarnet and ganciclovir. Treatment is not successful during pregnancy.
Protection: Condoms can provide protection during vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse, but kissing and other intimate touching can spread the virus.
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