Which virus is associated with intellectual disabilities and muscle atrophy in babies?

The virus associated with intellectual disabilities and muscle atrophy in babies is the cytomegalovirus. Cytomegalovirus is known to cause congenital infections, and when infants are infected in utero, they can experience a range of severe outcomes. These effects can include developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and muscle atrophy due to the impact of the virus on the nervous system and other organs.

While other viruses also have their own set of complications, cytomegalovirus specifically has been linked to significant neurodevelopmental issues when transmitted to infants before birth. Understanding the consequences of congenital infections is critical in early childhood special education, as educators and caregivers can better support developmental needs in children affected by such conditions.