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Cytomegalovirus Infection: Concern for Occupational, Environmental, and Nosocomial Infections?
Azra Kenarkoohi1,2, Fatemeh Ghiasi3, Hamed Azadi3
1Zoonotic Diseases Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran.
Background:
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the leading cause of congenital and perinatal infections, often presenting as asymptomatic at birth but later resulting in disabilities, and articular neurological disorders.
Aims:
The current study aims to assess the prevalence of asymptomatic CMV infection among healthcare workers at Ilam Gynecology and Obstetrics Hospital in Iran, as well as investigate the potential nosocomial transmission of CMV infection and identify any potential risk factors associated with neonatal CMV infection.
Methods:
This study involved 100 employees at Ilam Gynecology and Obstetrics Hospital who underwent blood and nasal swab CMV DNA testing using the real-time PCR technique.
Results:
The average age of the patients was 33.87 years, ranging from 24 to 52 years. Among the 100 samples, CMV DNA was detected in three blood samples (3%) (ages 26, 31, and 38 years) and one swab sample (1%) (age 31). To confirm the molecular results, the PCR products were purified and sequenced, and one case was confirmed to be an asymptomatic carrier of CMV.
Conclusions:
We did not find any significant correlation between CMV positivity and occupational groups. Despite the relatively low incidence of CMV DNA, especially in swab samples and the absence of evidence suggesting nosocomial transmission of CMV to the hospital staff or neonates, it is crucial to pay significant attention to primary CMV infection among healthcare workers.
Insights
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection was studied in 100 healthcare workers in Iran. While no nosocomial transmission was found, the study highlights the importance of monitoring CMV in healthcare professionals.
Area of Science:
- Medical Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a primary cause of congenital and perinatal infections, potentially leading to long-term disabilities and neurological disorders.
- Many CMV infections are asymptomatic at birth, complicating early detection and intervention.
- Understanding CMV prevalence in healthcare settings is crucial for preventing transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of asymptomatic Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection among healthcare workers at Ilam Gynecology and Obstetrics Hospital.
- To investigate the potential for nosocomial transmission of CMV within the hospital.
- To identify risk factors for neonatal CMV infection.
Main Methods:
- Real-time PCR was used to test 100 hospital employees' blood and nasal swabs for CMV DNA.
- Purification and sequencing of PCR products were performed for molecular confirmation.
- Data analysis focused on CMV positivity rates and correlation with occupational groups.
Main Results:
- CMV DNA was detected in 3% of blood samples and 1% of nasal swab samples.
- One participant was confirmed as an asymptomatic carrier of CMV.
- No significant correlation was found between CMV positivity and occupational groups.
Conclusions:
- The study found a low incidence of CMV DNA in healthcare workers, with no evidence of nosocomial transmission to staff or neonates.
- Despite low prevalence, the importance of primary CMV infection awareness among healthcare workers is emphasized.
- Further attention to CMV prevention strategies in healthcare settings is warranted.
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