Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a very common virus. So common in fact, that almost everyone is at some point exposed to CMV by the time they reach adulthood.
Facts about CMV:
- Once you've been exposed it'll be in your body system for the rest of your life.
- CMV is a member of the herpes virus family and rarely causes any sort of noticeable illness.
- If you've been exposed, there's a good chance you have no idea.
- Like other herpes viruses, CMV infection can become dormant but then reactivate at a later time.
The issue with CMV and pregnancy is if you're a first time carrier the virus can affect your unborn baby. So, if somehow you made it through your whole life without being exposed, and then catch CMV while pregnant, your baby could have complications such as blindness, deafness, or developmental issues.
What to do? Routine blood testing for CMV (to see if you've had it) is not generally done. You should talk to your health care provider and see if you are someone who should be tested. The place you'd most likely be exposed is at a day care center or if you work somewhere else that young children frequent. If you do work at a daycare center or around small kids, there's no need to quit your job though. Even if you test negative for CMV (meaning you've never been exposed) you can limit the chances you will be exposed with simply good hygiene.
Hand washing is key. After changing a diaper, wiping a nose, or playing with children, wash up. Also
minimize spit swapping of any kind - meaning don't allow little kids to slobber on you. If you are concerned about CMV talk to your prenatal care provider.
