The incidence of infection with cytomegalovirus in a normal population: A serological study in Greater London

Abstract

A serological study of cytomegalovirus infection in London shows it to be prevalent. Under 5 years of age only 4% of children have antibodies, but this increases to 15% by 10 years of age and 21% by 15 years. The maximum incidence of 54% is reached by 25–35 years, and this is maintained in the older age groups of the population. In two mixed day schools the incidence of infection was significantly lower than in a boarding school, suggesting that close prolonged contact is required for spread of infection. Different strains of cytomegalovirus possess common group-specific complement-fixing antigens. It is suggested that clinical disease caused by cytomegaloviruses is more frequent and more varied than previously believed, although diagnosis may be difficult without virological help.