Cytomegalovirus (sy·toe·MEG·a·low·vy·rus) commonly called CMV, is a common virus that is generally harmless to people with healthy immune systems. However pregnant women who haven’t been exposed to CMV are at risk of passing it to their unborn child should they come into contact with it.

Here is my latest poem I have written about it. There is more information at the bottom. Please, please share this post as people need to be aware of the risks of this treatable condition.

Nicola Tiffin – @TruthIsVital on Twitter

Me, my Boy and CMV

CMV is important to me, as my son was born with it you see.

In his case it is hidden for now, but with this virus it might become apparent somehow.

He is delayed with his learning and speech, and his lack of understanding makes it harder to teach.

He may lash out and get upset; however, please don’t see this as a threat.

He is a very kind and loving adorable boy,

who just needs some extra attention and not a toy.

He gets appointments all the time, to check that his hearing and eyesight are fine.

It can be stressful when you do not know, if these senses will eventually go.

Some babies born with CMV, do not have these senses or even worse to be.

Antivirals may help with CMV, but it needs to be diagnosed for it to be a possibility.

So please raise awareness and help people understand, what this virus can do at first hand.

We need to make this part of the standard routine, to test our little ones and hopefully find a vaccine.

Nicola Tiffin

What is CMV?

Babies born with congenital CMV may be born or develop birth defects and developmental disabilities such

• Hearing loss
• Vision loss
• Learning Disability
• Microcephaly (small head or brain)
• Intracranial calcifications
• Lack of coordination
• Cerebral Palsy
• Feeding issues / Failure to Thrive (FTT)
• Sleeping, behavior, sensory issues
• Seizures
• Death (in rare cases)

Despite these risks the NHS does not currently screen expectant mothers for CMV. I want this to change. Please Share this post to help raise awareness of a condition every parent should be aware of.