Organ Transplants: New CDC MMWR Highlights Dramatic Rise in KSHV Infections

[Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]

New MMWR

Clinicians Should Maintain Awareness for KSHV Infection Among Organ Transplant Recipients

New Morbitity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) reveals significant increase in reported cases of Kaposi Sarcoma–associated herpesvirus (KSHV) infections and deaths among solid organ transplant recipients in the United States (Jan. 2021-Sept. 2025)—making it one of the most consequential infectious disease outbreaks associated with organ transplantation in the U.S. in the last 20 years. This report underscores the need for enhanced awareness and screening protocols.

Key Findings Growing case counts. The number of solid organ donors suspected of transmitting KSHV has risen dramatically—46 cases were reported 2021-2025, compared to just nine cases 2016-2020.  Related deaths among organ recipients. A total of 185 organs from 46 donors were transplanted into 153 recipients, with 74 (48%) of these recipients developing a KSHV infection post-transplantation, resulting in 25 deaths.  Post-transplant complications. Among the affected recipients, 29 developed Kaposi sarcoma (KS), and several others experienced various KSHV-related complications, including lymphoproliferative disorders and Kaposi sarcoma inflammatory cytokine syndrome (KICS).

Clinical Implications  Given that people who receive solid organ transplants are on immunosuppressive medications, KSHV infections can lead to severe complications and even death. It is important for clinicians to maintain a high index of suspicion for KSHV in transplant recipients, especially when KSHV infection is identified in another recipient or donors have risk factors such as non-medical drug use.  Recommendations  Promptly report any suspected donor-derived KSHV infections to the Organ Procurement Transplantation Network (OPTN).  Consider KSHV testing for recipients, particularly when there are known risk factors or when another recipient from the same donor is infected.  Review the full MMWR for a comprehensive understanding of the findings and their implications for clinical practice.

	New MMWR on Kaposi Sarcoma–associated herpesvirus (KSHV) investigation reveals one of the most consequential infectious disease outbreaks associated with organ transplantation in the U.S. in the last 20 years. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/75/wr/mm7508a1.htm

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