What does "CMV" mean on my blood donor card?
1 Answer
CMV refers to cytomegalovirus.
Explanation:
Cytomegalovirus is a flu-like virus many people encounter in their lives. Since it is often harmless, most people don't know they have been infected. Once the virus is in the body, it stays there for life. About 50% of the general population has the virus.
For blood transfusion it is important to know whether the virus is present or not. When you are CMV+ (meaning the virus is present) blood can not be given to:
- pregnant woman
- newborn babies
- children
- patients with a weak immune system
The CMV status can change over time and donated blood is usually tested for presence of CMV. When it is already known that you are CMV+, it can be put on your donor card so they don't have to run the test (you are positive for life).
Sometimes CMV- (absence of the virus) is also presented on the donor card, but this status can change and will be checked for each donation!
