CMV is part of the TORCH infections that affect women when they are pregnant. [3] X Research source These infections can cause birth defects and are congenitally acquired. There is significant risk for morbidity and mortality from these infections. Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the leading cause of sensorineural hearing loss. Further, there are long-term neurodevelopmental disabilities associated with congenital CMV including the following: cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, vision impairment, and seizures.

Hepatosplenomegaly, or enlargement of the spleen and liver, is another concern that may result due to congenital CMV infection.

Vision loss can also occur.

Losing blood through ulcers in the digestive tract can lead to anemia, or low iron. It’s common to experience fatigue if you’re anemic. CMV colitis is uncommon in immunocompetent patients. It is usually a reactivation of latent CMV in those with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of pneumonia include cough, shortness of breath, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss.

Like with mono, there’s not much to do but wait it out and take care of yourself in the mean time. Healthy people rarely get seriously ill from CMV infection, so you probably don’t need to visit your doctor. Rest, hydrate, and take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) like Tylenol for aches and pains. Symptoms usually resolve on their own.

Inflammation in your intestines causing fever, stomach pain, diarrhea, and bloody stool. Brain inflammation (encephalitis) with subsequent changes in mental status. Hepatitis and poorly functioning liver. Inflammation of the lungs (pneumonitis), which can cause cough, difficulty breathing, and low appetite causing weight loss.

CMV is a big concern in those with HIV and weakened immune systems, while it poses little risk to those who are healthy.

Because of the strong side effects, ganciclovir should only be considered for infants with severe congenital CMV disease. Nursing mothers should stop breastfeeding while taking this medication. For some, CMV can be life-threatening – newborn babies, children with HIV/AIDS, or those being treated for cancer or having organ transplants. These cases might need hospitalization and treatment with intravenous (IV) antiviral drugs. [20] X Research source Patients receiving bone-marrow transplants might also benefit from getting CMV-immune globulin (CMV-IVIG)[21] X Research source

If you’re pregnant and have a new CMV infection, or any abnormality is detected on ultrasound, your doctor might want to do an amniocentesis to determine if your baby is infected. This procedure extracts and tests some amniotic fluid from the pregnant mom. See your doctor for CMV testing especially if you get an illness while pregnant that feels like mononucleosis (“mono”) – sore throat, fatigue, swollen glands in the throat, and fever. Breastfeed your baby without fear. It’s true that breastmilk is a fluid that can pass along CMV virus, but of all things breast milk least commonly makes the baby sick. Lactating mothers with CMV can still breastfeed. Doctors suggest that the positive effects of breastfeeding outweigh the possible risks of passing CMV to the baby. [23] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source

Be extra careful to wash your hands if changing diapers or are in contact with babies’ saliva. [27] X Research source

Kiss a child on the cheek rather than the mouth, especially if you’re pregnant. Carefully clean any toys that your child drools on.