Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common virus that infects people of all ages and belongs to the same family as varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox. When a pregnant woman catches CMV and the growing fetus becomes infected, this is known as congenital CMV (cCMV), which affects about 1 in 200 babies.

Most babies born with cCMV do not show signs of infection, but about 1 in 5 will experience congenital disabilities or other long-term health problems. Signs at birth can include rash, jaundice, microcephaly (small head size), low birth weight, enlarged liver and spleen, seizures, and retinal eye damage. Long-term issues may include changes in hearing and vision, developmental and/or motor delays, microcephaly, coordination difficulties or weakness, and seizures.

Since young children with CMV can transmit the virus to their parents, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents, childcare providers, and pregnant women reduce their risk of infection by limiting contact with saliva and urine from infants and young children; avoiding sharing food, utensils, cups, or pacifiers with a child; and washing their hands with soap and water after changing diapers or helping a child use the toilet.

Call your pediatrician promptly if your newborn shows signs of cCMV. Testing for cCMV should be done within 2 to 3 weeks of birth. If your newborn tests positive, antiviral medications can be effective, but they must be closely monitored for potential side effects.

Even without symptoms, cCMV can be spread through bodily fluids such as urine and saliva. The AAP provides extensive resources for physicians, families, and caregivers to help identify cCMV and support treatment at https://tinyurl.com/4dv7zd4w.