Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Please click the frequently asked questions below for further information and IPC precautions required:

• What is Cytomegalovirus?

  CMV is a member of the herpes virus family, which includes herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, varicella-zoster virus, and Epstein-Barr virus. These viruses share a characteristic ability to establish lifelong latency. After initial infection, which may cause few symptoms CMV becomes latent, residing in cells without causing detectable damage or illness.

  CMV is a common virus that’s usually harmless. Sometimes it causes problems in babies and people with a weakened immune system.

  

• How does it spread?

  CMV is transmitted by direct contact with infectious body fluids, such as urine, saliva, blood, tears, semen, and breast milk. CMV can be transmitted sexually and through transplanted organs and blood transfusions.

  CMV can only be passed on when it’s active. The virus is active when:

  • you get CMV for the first time – young children often get CMV for the first time at nursery
  • the virus has reactivated because you have a weakened immune system
  • you’ve been reinfected with a different type (strain) of CMV

  Congenital CMV is caused by passing on an active CMV infection to your unborn baby during pregnancy.

• What are the symptoms?

  Cytomegalovirus (CMV) does not usually cause any symptoms and most people do not realise they have it.

  Some people get flu-like symptoms the first time they get CMV, including:

  • a high temperature
  • aching muscles
  • tiredness
  • a skin rash
  • feeling sick
  • a sore throat
  • swollen glands

  They usually get better without treatment within about 3 weeks.

• Why is this important?

  If NIAS staff are aware that the patient has a suspected or confirmed case this should be communicated to the Control Room (Emergency or Non-emergency as appropriate) and the staff in the receiving unit when transferring the patient to ensure effective patient care and management.

  This is particularly essential if the patient is immunosuppressed or is being admitted to NICU or other augmented care areas.

• IPC Precautions
  • Standard Precautions should be used.
  • Contact Precautions may be required with high risk patients such as those who are immunosuppressed or Neonates. This can be discussed with the IPC team.
  • Hand Hygiene should be completed as per the 5 moments in line with usual practice.
  • Eye protection should be risk assessed for any concern regarding a splash risk.
  • Gloves and Aprons should be risk assessed and worn if contact with the patient’s blood or bodily fluids.
  • Laundry should be treated as per standard policy.
• What cleaning is required?

  All equipment and the ambulance should have an in-between patient clean, paying particular attention to touch points.

• Do staff need prophylaxis or follow up?

  No staff follow up required.