Pathway to Implement Congenital CMV Screening and Future Legislation - One State's Progress

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a ubiquitous infection and congenital CMV (cCMV) infection is the most common non-genetic cause of hearing loss in infants and children. However, most pregnant women and women of childbearing age are still unaware of it. In 2019, North Carolina established a stakeholder workgroup consisting of representatives from the Department of Health and Human Services and the state Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EDHI) program, which included pediatric audiologists, pediatric infectious disease specialists, pediatric otolaryngologists, and parent advocates. In addition to surveying the major birthing centers, several statewide informational webinars were presented on the impact of congenital CMV, the methodology for detection, prevention measures, and the need for widespread provider and patient education. This presentation will focus on the next steps, including the implementation of hearing-targeted screening within the major teaching hospitals, the use of universal screening in high-risk populations such as premature babies, and opportunities for possible future legislation in the state. We will review the status of vaccine development, the implications of congenital CMV beyond hearing loss, and how we can partner with the National CMV Foundation to influence change. We will also discuss what families need to know for their child’s future regarding hearing status and for monitoring over time.

 

Learning Objectives