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Former Prison Officer Suing State Over Virus

Officer says virus contracted while working in the prison was transmitted to her unborn baby

By Molly Priddy

BILLINGS — A former Montana Women’s Prison correctional officer is suing the state after a virus she says she contracted while working in the prison was transmitted to her unborn baby, who later suffered severe neurological damage.

The Billings Gazette reports Brittany Mumm claims in her lawsuit that she contracted cytomegalovirus, or CMV, while she was pregnant at the prison. She is seeking an unknown amount in damages for personal injury and court costs.

The state of Montana has denied any responsibility for the virus being transferred to Mumm’s child.

CMV is the most common viral infection infants are born with in the U.S. It is contracted from close contact with saliva or other body secretions.

The scheduling for a trial date in the case was postponed Tuesday.