CMV Threat To Newborns

Women previously infected with cytomegalovirus (CMV) are not immune to reinfection from a different strain of the virus, according to a study in the May 3 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine.

"This means pregnant women can be reinfected and pass CMV to their unborn babies," says Suresh Boppana, M.D., UAB pediatrician and lead researcher.

CMV is a member of the herpes-virus family and can be transmitted sexually, through breast-feeding and through contact with body fluids during the toddler years. In newborns, CMV causes complications ranging from hearing loss to brain damage.

"Pregnant women need to be vigilant about practicing safe sex," Boppana said. "Also, daycare workers should practice good hygiene and wash their hands often."

Contact Tracy Bischoff, Media Relations, 205-934-8935 or [email protected].