CDC - CMV: For Healthcare Professionals

CMV Homepage

For Healthcare Professionals

Cytomegalovirus, or CMV, infects between 50% and 80% of persons in the United States by 40 years of age. CMV prevalence is higher in developing countries and areas with lower socioeconomic conditions.

Clinical Features

Characteristics of virus, transmission and prevention.

At-Risk Patients

Infection in pregnant women and immunocompromised patients.

Interpretation of Laboratory Tests

Tests to detect IgM and IgG antibody to CMV; what a positive test or an avidity assay may indicate.

Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment

Laboratory tests that detect congenital CMV infection must be done during the first week after birth.

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