Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a common human pathogen with a high infection rate up to 40%-100% worldwide. Studies have shown that HCMV-infected patients are susceptible to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, in which atherosclerosis (AS) plays a crucial role in the pathological process of multiple cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Larger epidemiologic data also indicate the presence of HCMV DNA and antibody in atherosclerotic plaques and vessel walls. Meanwhile, meta analysis has been conducted to demonstrate HCMV infection is the risk factor of atherosclerosis, which implies HCMV may be associated with the formation and development of atherosclerosis. In this review, the contribution of HCMV to vascular pathology with particular focus on atherosclerosis is reviewed.