State Rep. Chris Campbell raises awareness on Cytomegalovirus birth defects

INDIANAPOLIS – On Wednesday (June 8), State Rep. Chris Campbell (D-West Lafayette) hosted an event in recognition of Cytomegalovirus Awareness Month. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the leading infectious cause of birth defects, occurring in one of 200 births. This event raised awareness about CMV, how it is spread from pregnant woman to unborn child and how it can be prevented.

Campbell was joined by State Rep. Rita Fleming (D-Jeffersonville), State Sen. J.D. Ford (D-Indianapolis), medical experts, and mothers who have been personally affected by CMV. 

“Cytomegalovirus is the most common viral infection that infants are born with in our country but only 9% of women know what it is,” Campbell said. “It’s an incredibly serious defect, yet it is very preventable and treatable. By taking time today to talk with doctors in our state and mothers who have experienced CMV, I’m hoping more families can learn about it and take steps in both stopping the infection and properly managing it after diagnosis.”

Nearly one in three children are already infected with CMV by five years of age and children with CMV may suffer long term health problems such as hearing and vision loss, intellectual disabilities, microcephaly, lack of coordination and seizures. Symptoms may not be present at birth but can develop later on. Diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of children with congenital cytomegalovirus can help improve health outcomes.