The Soul Killer

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common viral infection of newborns in the US. About 30,000 infants are born with CMV infection annually. About 5000 infants are born with or develop serious disability.

Since most infected with the virus don't know they carry it, it's important to identify carriers during pregnancy. It's also more important to minimize exposure to infection. The CDC suggests the following:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 15-20 seconds, especially after
  • changing diapers
  • feeding a young child
  • wiping a young child’s nose or drool
  • handling children’s toys
• Do not share food, drinks, or eating utensils used by young children
• Do not put a child’s pacifier in your mouth
• Do not share a toothbrush with a young child
• Avoid contact with saliva when kissing a child
• Clean toys, countertops, and other surfaces that come into contact with children’s urine or saliva

For more information,do  discuss this infection with your Obstetrician - sooner rather than later.