NICU
Neonates, Infant, Newborn, Baby, Preemie
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
CMV is a virus in the herpes family. Though it does not present visible symptoms such as blistering or scarring, it does present itself in the form of mono-like symptoms, including fever, swollen glands, and feeling lethargic.
Infants in and out of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit usually obtain CMV from their mothers while in utero, or it is given to them by their mothers after birth.
Here are a couple key facts about CMV to remember:
- Almost everyone has been exposed to CMV by adulthood.
- Most infected infants, children, and adults do not show symptoms of CMV.
- Like herpes, the virus stays in your system forever, lying dormant.
- CMV is of higher risk to infants and people with auto-immune deficiencies
- Only 1:1000 babies may develop serious serious nervous system damage or developmental disabilities [Source]
There is no current treatment for CMV, as there are no vaccinations for the virus. Infants in the NICU may be treated for CMV by intravenous (IV) drugs.
See also:
• New York State Department of Health - CMV
• Kid's Health - CMV