Cytomegalovirus – CMV infection

CMV Infection (Cytomegalovirus)

Description cytomegalovirus

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) It is a common infection, caused by virus. It may cause swelling of the lymph nodes, fever and fatigue. Most people with CMV have no symptoms and do not know, they are infected. CMV infection usually occurs in young people. Then, the virus remains in the body throughout life. Basically it is dormant, but in stressful situations, it may be activated.

CMV infection rarely causes health problems, except for people with weakened immune systems, as a result of:

• Organ transplants;
• HIV infection;
• Medication, suppress the immune system.

Babies in the womb are also at risk of CMV infection.

Causes of cytomegalovirus

CMV is caused by the herpes virus. The virus is transmitted between people through bodily fluids. CMV can be transmitted during:

• Kiss;
• Sexual intercourse;
• Breast-feeding
• Replacement of the diaper of an infected child.

Risk factors of cytomegalovirus

This virus is so common, that almost everyone is at risk of CMV infection. Persons at high risk of infection include:

• Children and teachers in kindergartens and pre-schools due to frequent contact with body fluids;
• People with weakened or suppressed immune systems, including the following reasons::
  • Organ transplant;
  • Current chemotherapy;
  • HIV or AIDS.

Symptoms of cytomegalovirus

When inactive cytomegalovirus causes no symptoms. But it can be activated because of medication or illness. Symptoms of the virus include activated:

• Hyperadenosis;
• Sore throat;
• Fever;
• Fatigue.

In people with suppressed or impaired immune systems can also develop:

• Diarrhea;
• Pneumonia;
• Colitis – inflammation of the large intestine with ulcers and bleeding;
• Retinitis – eye infection, which can lead to blindness;
• Hepatitis – infection of the liver;
• Encephalitis – infection of the brain, which can result in seizures or coma.

Diagnosis of cytomegalovirus

CMV infection is often not diagnosed, as the virus rarely produces symptoms. If CMV is suspected, physician can look for signs of infection in the blood or body fluid sample. It can also be done biopsy of the affected.

Treatment of cytomegalovirus

Most people, inficirovannыh CMV, It does not require special treatment. Treatment may be needed, If the virus is activated, or a weakened immune system.

Antivirals may be administered to persons after organ transplantation or if the patient's immune system is suppressed. These drugs do not cure CMV, but can reduce the symptoms and duration of illness.

Prevention of cytomegalovirus

While there is no reliable way to prevent CMV infection. There are some measures, which can reduce the likelihood of infection:

• Wash your hands frequently;
• Dispose of diapers;
• Use only your glasses or cutlery, Do not give them to other people;
• Avoid close contact with people, who have CMV infection;
• Practice Safe Sex.