Cytomegalovirus
Alternate Names : CMV
Cytomegalovirus is a virus that causes different illnesses in
different groups of people.
What is going on in the body?
Cytomegalovirus, also known as CMV, is a common infection. Although lifelong, the
virus usually remains quiet in the tissues of the body after the initial infection.
It can, however, be shed in the mouth, urine, and genital tract, serving as a
source of infection for other people. CMV can also cause a second, more
severe infection if the immune system becomes weak for any reason.
What are the causes and risks of the disease?
Most people have been infected with CMV by the time they are
adults. People with who are at risk for severe disease include:
those who have weakened immune systems
unborn children
people who receive a blood transfusion or an organ transplant
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