Preventing CMV in child care
There is currently no vaccine to prevent against infection with CMV. Good personal hygiene, including hand washing, is the most important way to prevent CMV infection, as CMV is readily killed with soap and detergent.
CMV infections are common among children in childcare settings but most children will not have symptoms and their infection will be unknown. Children known to have CMV do not require exclusion from childcare because the virus may persist in their urine and saliva for months to years.
The occupational risks of CMV infection in child care facilities should be managed with a risk management approach, as outlined in the Risk Management Code of Practice 2007.
The following control measures can be effective in preventing CMV infection:
- Workplace design that encourages good hygiene practices, for example by installing hand-washing amenities close to nappy changing areas.
- Wash hands frequently, especially after contact with urine and saliva and after removing disposable gloves.
- Use alcohol-based hand rub for situations where hand-washing facilities are not readily available, such as when taking children on excursions.
- Cover cuts with water-resistant dressings.
- Use disposable gloves (eg latex or vinyl) for activities that involve contact with urine and saliva and instruct workers in their use.
- Provide information to workers about CMV risks during pregnancy and work practices to reduce the risk of infection. Keep training records.
- Relocate workers who are pregnant, or who expect to become pregnant, to care for children aged over two years of age, as contact with urine and saliva is generally lower in this age group.
- Purchase equipment and toys that are readily cleaned.
- Instruct workers not to kiss children on the mouth and face.
- Implement cleaning programs for surfaces and items that are soiled with urine and saliva, including nappy change mats, potties and toys.
- Implement procedures for hygienic nappy changing and the storage and disposal of soiled nappies. Take steps to prevent urine from spraying into the face of workers if infants pass urine during nappy changing (especially infant boys).
- Implement laundry procedures for linen that is soiled with urine and saliva. Make sure that soiled personal clothing and linen are placed in a sealed bag and sent home with the child for washing.
- Implement procedures for cleaning up accidental spills of urine, such as occur during toilet training.
- Discuss CMV risks with a doctor if pregnant or considering becoming pregnant.
- Inform the employer if pregnant or expect to become pregnant.
Last updated September 14, 2006
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