- The study suggests that a common virus in newborn babies, cytomegalovirus (CMV), may increase their risk of developing autism.
- Babies born with CMV were found to be two-and-a-half times more likely to be diagnosed with autism in their lives compared to children without CMV.
- CMV is passed from pregnant women to their fetus in the womb and is the most common congenital virus in the US.
- Researchers believe that CMV may cause inflammation in the fetus’ brain, interrupting its development and increasing the likelihood of autism.
- Screening for CMV during pregnancy or at birth could help in early detection and support for children at risk of developing autism.
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Infectious Diseases,Pediatrics,Neurology