Cytomegalovirus vaccine
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A Cytomegalovirus vaccine is a vaccine to prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection or curb virus re-activation (symptomatic flare-ups) in persons already infected. Challenges in developing a vaccine include adeptness of CMV in evading the immune system and limited animal models.[1] As of 2018 no such vaccine exists, although a number of vaccine candidates are under investigation. They include recombinant protein, live attenuated, DNA and other vaccines.[1][2][3]
As a member of the TORCH complex, cytomegalovirus can cause congenital infection, which can lead to neurological problems, vision and hearing loss. Infection/re-activation of CMV in immuno-compromised persons, including organ transplantation recipients, causes significant mortality and morbidity. Additionally, CMV has strong associations with plaques found in atherosclerosis progression.[4] Because of all these, there has been considerable effort made towards the development of a vaccine, with particular emphasis on protection of pregnant women.[5] Since vaccination of the immunocompromised persons introduces additional challenges, members of this population are less likely to be candidates for such a vaccine.[2][6]
Additionally, there are additional health risks for individuals who are already not infected with CMV. For instance, CMV infection is strongly associated with development of Alzheimer's disease.[7]
Development of such a vaccine has been emphasized as a priority by the National Vaccine Program Office in the United States.[8][9]