The Significance and Burden of Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection: Interviews with Two Leading Experts

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a member of the family Herpesviridae. This virus can remain dormant in body over long period after initial infection. Transmission CMV occurs through direct contact with bodily fluids, such as saliva, urine, blood, semen, and breast milk, from individuals who are actively shedding these fluids. extremely common found throughout all geographical locations socioeconomic groups. Congenital (cCMV) infection most congenital globally has potentially severe consequences for infants; however, there little awareness cCMV among pregnant females, families, healthcare professionals (HCP). For this article, EMJ conducted interviews March 2023 two leading experts: Christine E. Jones University Southampton Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UK; Megan Pesch C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA, National Foundation, Tampa, Florida, both whom have wealth experience expertise management cCMV. The experts gave valuable insights into topics impact on infants their families public health; screening, diagnosis, treatment also explored potential complications cCMV, particularly sensorineural hearing loss, importance prevention maternal infection, strategies to raise HCPs public. In addition, provided patient advocate perspective sharing how impacted child, themself, family.