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Prevalence and determinants of cytomegalovirus infection in pre-school children

Timothy P O'Brien1, John M D Thompson, Peter N Black

  • 1Departments of Paediatrics, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.

Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health
|June 5, 2009
PubMed

Insights

The seroprevalence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in New Zealand preschoolers is 32.8%, with significant ethnic variations. No clear determinants like socioeconomic status or daycare were identified.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Epidemiology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common viral infection with potential health implications in early childhood.
  • Understanding CMV seroprevalence is crucial for public health strategies in developed nations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the seroprevalence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection among 3.5-year-old children in New Zealand.
  • To identify factors associated with CMV seropositivity in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 1714 children, enrolled at birth, was followed until 3.5 years of age.
  • Blood samples from 530 children were analyzed for CMV-specific immunoglobulin using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Main Results:

  • The overall weighted seroprevalence of CMV was 32.8% (95% CI 27.4-38.1%).
  • Significant ethnic disparities in seroprevalence were observed, with Maori (68.0%) and Pacific (74.5%) children showing higher rates.
  • No association was found between CMV seropositivity and socioeconomic factors, number of siblings, daycare attendance, maternal smoking, or breastfeeding.

Conclusions:

  • CMV seroprevalence in New Zealand preschoolers is comparable to other developed countries.
  • Marked ethnic differences in CMV seroprevalence exist but are not explained by the investigated socioeconomic or environmental factors.
Abstract

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