Sero-Prevalence of Cytomegalovirus (IgM) Antibodies among Pregnant Women Attending Ante-natal Clinic at the General Hospital Kafanchan, Kaduna State Nigeria

Cytomegalovirus has been implicated as one of the causes of congenital defects in babies of infected mothers. This study was therefore conducted to determine the prevalence of Human Cytomegalovirus IgM antibodies among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at the General hospital Kafanchan Kaduna State, Nigeria. A total of 190 serum samples were collected and analyzed using Human Cytomegalous Virus Enzymes ImmunoAssay kits. The study revealed that 20 out of the 190 samples were positive for Human Cytomegalous Virus IgM antibodies giving an overall prevalence of 10.5%. The prevalence was found to be higher (50%) in age group 41-45 and lowest (9.2%) in age group 26-30 (χ2 =17.309, P = 0.004). Though not statistically significant the prevalence was higher in multigravid (11.5%) and lower in primigravid (8.3%). More so, women in their third trimester recorded the highest prevalence (12.5%). The high prevalence of Cytomegalovirus antibodies recorded in this study suggests that it could be endemic in the area. There is therefore the need for routine screening of pregnant women and women of child bearing age for cytomegalovirus antibodies. Increased awareness to reduce infection and transmission is also recommended.