What are the dangers of CMV?

Dangers of CMV

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common virus that can cause a range of health problems, from mild to severe. In most healthy people, CMV causes no symptoms or only mild symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, and muscle aches. However, CMV can be dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, and people taking immunosuppressive medications.

In people with weakened immune systems, CMV can cause a variety of serious health problems, including:

* Pneumonia: CMV can cause pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs. CMV pneumonia can be severe and even life-threatening.

* Encephalitis: CMV can cause encephalitis, which is an infection of the brain. CMV encephalitis can cause a range of symptoms, including seizures, confusion, and memory loss.

* Gastroenteritis: CMV can cause gastroenteritis, which is an infection of the digestive system. CMV gastroenteritis can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

* Retinitis: CMV can cause retinitis, which is an infection of the retina. CMV retinitis can lead to vision loss and blindness.

* Congenital CMV: CMV can be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her unborn baby. Congenital CMV can cause a range of health problems in babies, including hearing loss, vision loss, and developmental disabilities.

Preventing CMV

There is no vaccine to prevent CMV. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of getting CMV, including:

* Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.

* Avoid contact with people who are sick with CMV.

* Use condoms during sex.

* Do not share food or drink with someone who is sick with CMV.

* If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk of getting CMV.

Treating CMV

There are no specific treatments for CMV. Treatment is focused on relieving symptoms and preventing serious complications. In people with weakened immune systems, antiviral medications may be used to treat CMV.