Cytomegalovirus seroprevalence in exposed and unexposed populations of hospital employees

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.