Cytomegalovirus seroprevalence in exposed and unexposed populations of hospital employees

Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2011 Jan;30(1):65-70. doi: 10.1007/s10096-010-1054-4. Epub 2010 Sep 15.

Abstract

The objective of this work was to compare the seroprevalence of cytomegalovirus in an unexposed and exposed population, both working in a hospital, and to study the occupational risk factors related to seropositivity, while taking personal risk factors into account. We conducted a cross-sectional study in a French hospital over a period of 12 months. The overall seroprevalence among the 550 subjects was 49.5%. The multivariate analysis showed that seropositivity was significantly associated with age (36-43 years: odds ratio [OR] = 1.7; 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.1-2.8]) and working as a pediatric nurse's aide (OR = 1.8; 95% CI: [1.1-2.8]). This study confirms the need to improve prevention procedures in the workplace, including screening, information, and hygiene rules.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antibodies, Viral / blood*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Cytomegalovirus / immunology*
  • Cytomegalovirus Infections / epidemiology*
  • Female
  • France / epidemiology
  • Health Personnel*
  • Hospitals*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Occupational Exposure / statistics & numerical data*
  • Risk Factors
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies

Substances

  • Antibodies, Viral