According to the Department of Health, in Australia, about 50 per cent of young adults have been infected and approximately 85% of people would have been exposed by the time they are 40.

In healthy people, CMV infection will cause nothing more than flu-like symptoms which usually last for a few days, however in certain people with suppressed immunity, such as transplant patients and pregnant women, the effects can be much more serious.

If you are trying to fall pregnant or thinking of starting a family in the future, it’s important to check your CMV immunity checked to see if you have antibodies against the virus.

It is also important to practice good hygiene and take preventative steps such as washing hands often with soap and running water; especially after close contact with young children, changing nappies, blowing noses, feeding a young child, and handling children’s toys, dummies and soothers. Do not share food, drinks, eating utensils or toothbrushes with young children and avoid contact with saliva when kissing a child.

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Although CMV infections in adults and children are mostly asymptomatic and harmless, the virus can be lethal to the developing foetus. Similarly, the Zika virus can cause severe birth defects including microcephaly and a spectrum of congenital malformations and is spread by mosquitoes.

A study presented at ESHRE this week has focused primarily on viral proteins in chorionic villi from first trimester placentas and found that both viruses target the cytotrophoblasts, and cells that prevent the spread of pathogens from mother to foetus. By crossing the uterine-placental barrier and targeting these cells, the viruses are able to infect the growing foetus, which ultimately results in severe birth defects.

These recent studies have provided a novel strategy to help strengthen the natural protection and reduce virus transmission at the uterine-placental interface.

Fertility First ensures all its patients are tested for Zika and CMV. To find out how Fertility First can help, contact the clinic today.

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