What is cmv negative?

CMV negative refers to individuals who do not have cytomegalovirus (CMV) in their body or who have not been exposed to it. CMV is a common virus that can be spread through bodily fluids such as saliva, blood, urine, and breast milk. It is typically harmless in healthy individuals but can cause problems in people with weakened immune systems or unborn babies whose mothers contract the virus during pregnancy.

Being CMV negative is particularly important for pregnant women, as contracting the virus during pregnancy can lead to complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and birth defects. It is also important for people who receive blood transfusions or organ transplants, as CMV can be transmitted through these procedures.

Testing for CMV status is typically done through a blood test. People who are CMV negative may be advised to take extra precautions to avoid exposure to the virus, such as practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding contact with bodily fluids from infected individuals. For pregnant women, avoiding exposure to CMV-positive children and frequent handwashing can be important to prevent transmission of the virus.