The cytomegalovirus is a virus that occurs worldwide and can infect people of all ages. The virus belongs to the group of herpesviruses, like cold sores. This virus is found all over the world. Almost everyone comes into contact with the virus sooner or later, and more than half of the people in the Netherlands have experienced an infection. The infection usually does not cause symptoms and therefore often goes unnoticed. Some people may experience fever and fatigue.

After the initial CMV infection, the virus can remain latent in the body and become active again later. This usually does not cause symptoms. In women who are infected for the first time during pregnancy, the unborn baby can become infected. The baby can also be infected if the virus becomes active again in the pregnant woman. In these cases, there is a small chance of congenital abnormalities in the baby. The pregnant woman herself is not at an increased risk of a severe illness.

Infectiousness

The transmission route of CMV includes both direct and indirect contact with infected body fluids, such as saliva and urine. It can be transmitted through close contact or diaper changing. Since an infection generally does not cause symptoms, it is usually unknown whether someone is contagious or not. You can become ill if you come into contact with the virus. The risk of infection is higher in crowded spaces where many people are in close proximity. Additionally, it is common among children in daycare centers and nurseries and their parents/caregivers. Good hygiene is important; avoid contact with bodily fluids or wash hands thoroughly if there has been contact (for example, after changing a child’s diaper). It is adviced to clean objects and/or toys that childern have played with.

Antibodies

IgG antibodies are present for life and appear shortly after IgM antibodies. IgM antibodies are detectable for 4-6 months after infection.

Sources

• RIVM: Cytomegalovirusinfectie. Available through https://www.rivm.nl/cytomegalovirusinfectie
• RIVM: CMV-infectie: Richtlijn. Available through https://lci.rivm.nl/richtlijnen/cmv-infectie