Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection among Reproductive Women of Dhaka

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is one of the frequent reasons behind congenital infectious disease as well as increased mortality among immune-suppressed population. Unlike many other viruses, it causes lifelong latency with high recurrence and re-infection rate. Here, 42 pregnant women and 42 non-pregnant women of age 20-45 years were screened for presence of anti CMV antibodies (IgG and IgM) in their serum using ELISA technique. All of the participants (100%) were found to be positive for anti CMV IgG antibody. On the other hand, only 1 pregnant woman was found to be positive for anti CMV IgM antibody who was also positive for anti CMV IgG antibody. So, it is obvious that, CMV infection rate is very high among Bangladeshi women while active CMV infection during pregnancy is also commonly seen despite presence of existing immunity (CMV IgG). Considering the fatal effects of congenital CMV, maintaining hygienic precautions in pregnancy as well as educating all mothers to be about CMV infection is highly advisable.