Awareness of congenital cytomegalovirus among reproductive age women in southwest Nigeria

AWOLEKE Jacob Olumuyiwa; ADANIKIN Abiodun Idowu

Volume : VI, Issue : IV, April - 2017

Awareness of congenital cytomegalovirus among reproductive age women in southwest Nigeria

Awoleke Jacob Olumuyiwa, Adanikin Abiodun Idowu

Abstract :

Objective: This study explores the level of awareness of congenital CMV infection among reproductive age women in southwest Nigeria.

Methods: A validated questionnaire instrument was employed to obtain information from 796 women about the awareness of, sources of information, and known manifestations of congenital CMV.

Results: The prevalence of CMV awareness was 21.4%, much lower than awareness of HIV (91.3%) and Hepatitis B Virus (83.4%). The odds of CMV awareness was higher among women living in urban areas (AOR: 3.46; 95% CI: 2.18–5.50), who are healthcare workers (AOR: 6.87; 95% CI: 3.21–14.72) and/or in polygamous relationship (AOR: 4.40; 95% CI: 1.39–13.98). Those currently pregnant were less likely to have heard of CMV (AOR: 0.17; 95% CI: 0.09–0.32). Commonest source of information was from health workers but correct knowledge of manifestations and preventive measures was poor.

Conclusion: Routine information about CMV infection, its manifestations and prevention should be promoted in women clinics and schools.