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Correct Answer: cytomegalovirus
tomegalovirus (cmv).
cytomegalovirus, often abbreviated as cmv, belongs to the herpesvirus family, which also includes viruses like herpes simplex viruses that cause oral and genital herpes, and the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles. cmv is known for its stealthy behavior, as it can remain dormant within the body over a long period. this ability to stay latent and then reactivate makes managing and predicting the virus's impact challenging.
cmv is particularly significant in the context of pregnancy because it is the virus most commonly transmitted from a pregnant woman to her fetus. this transmission can occur via the placenta during pregnancy, during delivery when the baby passes through the birth canal, or after birth through breast milk. although cmv is generally harmless to healthy children and adults, it can cause serious disease in babies infected before birth, known as congenital cmv.
approximately 1% of all newborns are born with congenital cmv. although many of these babies will not show symptoms or suffer long-term health consequences, some may experience complications. these complications can include hearing loss, vision loss, developmental and motor delays, and in severe cases, more critical conditions such as microcephaly or even fetal death.
preventative measures against cmv transmission during pregnancy are somewhat limited, as there is currently no vaccine available. however, simple hygienic practices such as hand washing, particularly after changing diapers, and avoiding sharing food and utensils with young children can reduce the risk of acquiring cmv.
in summary, cmv is the virus most frequently passed from mother to baby during pregnancy, and it poses significant risks, particularly in cases of congenital infection. awareness and appropriate hygienic precautions are key to managing the risk of cmv transmission.
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