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Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Also called: Cytomegalovirus, CMV, congenital CMV

A common virus that usually causes mild or no illness, but can harm babies infected before birth and people with weak immune systems.

CommonMost adults have had it
RiskPregnancy, weak immune system
NewbornsHearing loss risk

Overview

It spreads through saliva and urine, often from young children.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Usually no symptoms

Less common

  • Fever
  • Tiredness

Look up a symptom: Fever

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayFever in a transplant patient.
See a doctor soonExposure in pregnancy.

Causes

CMV virus.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • Yes, it can spread from person to person.
  • How it spreads: touch or body fluids.
  • Don't share towels, hats, combs, or bedding while it's being treated.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Pregnancy
  • Daycare workers

Possible complications

Diagnosis

Blood or urine tests.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • CMV tests:

Treatment

Lower spread in pregnancy.

Self-care

  • Wash hands after diapers
  • Don't share cups with toddlers
  • Kiss toddlers on the forehead

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Antivirals
Babies or weak immunity

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

  • Handwashing

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Stay home until you've had no fever for 24 hours without fever medicine and you're feeling better.
  • For the next 5 days, wash hands often and wear a mask around others.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Mild for most.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.