Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a very common virus that belongs to the herpesviridae family—the same family that includes viruses like herpes simplex (HSV) and varicella-zoster (VZV). It’s estimated that between 60% and 90% of the adult population has been exposed to CMV at some point, often without showing any symptoms.
What makes this virus particularly noteworthy is its ability to remain in the body in a latent state after the initial infection. While most healthy individuals don’t develop complications, CMV can reactivate during periods of immunosuppression and pose a health risk.
Cytomegalovirus and Its Latent Phase: What Does It Mean?
After the first infection (which often goes unnoticed or causes only mild, flu-like symptoms), CMV doesn’t disappear entirely. Instead, it hides in certain immune cells—especially monocytes and macrophages—entering a phase known as latency.
During this phase, the virus is not actively replicating, there are no visible symptoms, and the immune system keeps a constant watch to prevent reactivation.
This dormant state can last indefinitely as long as immune defenses are balanced. However, if the immune system is weakened—due to illness, medical treatments, or prolonged stress—the virus can reactivate and cause complications.
Who Is at Higher Risk of CMV Reactivation?
Transplant recipients
Individuals who have received a transplant (solid organ or bone marrow) must take immunosuppressive medication to prevent rejection. This suppression of the immune system can make it easier for CMV to reactivate, potentially leading to serious infections in organs such as the liver, lungs, or eyes. As a result, CMV monitoring is a priority in post-transplant care.
Cancer patients
Chemotherapy and other immune-targeting treatments reduce the body’s ability to contain latent infections. CMV reactivation can worsen clinical outcomes and interfere with ongoing treatment.
Pregnant women
CMV can be transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy (vertical transmission). If the mother contracts CMV for the first time or experiences a reactivation, the virus can cross the placenta and affect fetal development, potentially causing neurological, auditory, or motor impairments.
In all these cases, strengthening the immune system is a key strategy to reduce the risk of reactivation.
How Is Cytomegalovirus Managed? Medical and Complementary Strategies
Conventional medicine offers effective tools for monitoring cytomegalovirus, such as antiviral drugs and adjustments to immunosuppressive medications if the virus becomes active.
However, complementary strategies to support the immune system are becoming increasingly important, especially in patients who don’t currently have an active infection but are at risk.
Introducing the Supplement Bi·Bran
Bi·Bran is a supplement made with arabinoxylan, a natural immunomodulator that supports immune function:
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Helps protect against the aging process (anti-aging effect)
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Protects the body from free radicals and oxidative stress
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Modulates immune system activity
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Supports immune defenses in cases of recurrent infections
If you have latent cytomegalovirus and belong to a high-risk group, strengthening your immune system is essential to help your body keep the virus under control and lower the chances of reactivation.
