Cytomegalovirus linked to childhood hearing loss and cerebral palsy

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is estimated to be responsible for 25% of childhood hearing loss cases and 10% of cerebral palsy cases, according to Professor Giorgos Sourvinos. While 80% to 85% of infants born with the infection do not show symptoms, those who do require long-term monitoring by multidisciplinary medical teams for at least five years.

CMV is transmitted through bodily fluids, including saliva and urine. Transmission can occur through kissing, sharing glasses, or contact with an infant's urine during diaper changes. Vertical transmission from mother to fetus occurs via the placenta. The virus can remain latent in the body and reactivate, posing significant risks to pregnant women, fetuses, and immunocompromised individuals.

Professor Sourvinos shared these findings during the 19th International CMV Conference held in Athens. He noted that the prevalence of the virus varies by region, affecting 40% to 60% of the population in developed countries and 90% to 100% in developing or underdeveloped nations.