Mark Schleiss, M.D., director, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases led a study with University of Minnesota pediatric researchers in developing a new vaccine that protects the offspring of guinea pigs infected with cytomegalovirus (CMV). The study included female guinea pigs who were vaccinated before pregnancy. The results showed fewer deaths among babies. The offspring were also less likely to transmit the infection and had reduced levels of the virus in their blood streams.

The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health and appeared in the March 15 issue of Journal of Infectious Disease. Dr. Schleiss plans to conduct a human clinical trial of a CMV vaccine at University of Minnesota Children’s Hospital, Fairview in the coming year.

“Most adults will be infected with CMV sometime throughout their lifetime and not even realize they have the virus”, says Dr. Schleiss. Finding an effective vaccine for women before they become pregnant could go a long way in preventing often devastating long-term disabilities in children resulting from CMV.”

CMV is the second most common cause to mental retardation following Down’s syndrome. It is the leading cause of deafness in children. Other potential issues include cerebral palsy, seizure disorders and other neurological issues. CMV is the most common virus transmitted to a baby during pregnancy. 1 in 150 children are born with CMV every day and there is no treatment or vaccine currently available. The Institute of Medicine has identified that a vaccine for CMV for use in pregnancy is a top priority. 

To learn more about the CMV study or to participate in clinical trials, please contact University of Minnesota Pediatric Infectious Disease Department at 612-624-1112 or email cmv@umn.edu.