Frequently Asked Questions About Cytomegalovirus Disease (CMV)

The National Congenital CMV Disease Registry provides useful information on Cytomegalovirus Disease. Read through our list of frequently asked questions and answers below.

• How do you catch CMV?
• What happens in the body during a CMV infection?
• What are usual signs and symptoms of acquired CMV infection?
• How common is CMV in newborns?
• How do you make a diagnosis of congenital CMV infection?
• What are signs and symptoms of congenital CMV disease?
• What problems are associated with a "silent" CMV infection?
• What are the chances my unborn baby has CMV?
• When a diagnosis of congenital CMV has been made, what type of followup is recommended?
• My child has been diagnosed with congenital CMV infection. When should his hearing be tested?
• Will my child's hearing loss get worse?
• Should I find out if my child is still shedding the virus?

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• I'm thinking about becoming pregnant. Is there any test that can be done to show if I could be at risk for catching CMV?

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• If I have given birth to a baby with CMV, should I be concerned about future pregnancies?
• Can I prevent catching CMV?
• Is there a vaccine against CMV?

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• Can congenital CMV infection or disease be treated?
• Can congenital CMV infection or disease be treated before the baby is born? Can CMV be treated in the pregnant woman to prevent or reduce the effects of CMV on her fetus?
• Is there a CMV support group?

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