While CMV is a common virus, congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is one of the most common infectious causes of birth defects in the United States. The comprehensive resources below provide the information you need to identify cCMV in your patients along with resources to support the treatment of this virus.

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Congenital Cytomegalovirus Overview

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is a common infection that occurs during pregnancy. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a virus that belongs to the same family as other common viruses like the chicken pox virus. When children or adults catch CMV it is generally harmless and causes no symptoms. Young children are a common source of CMV and may spread it to their parents.

However, if a pregnant woman catches CMV and the growing fetus becomes infected, this can lead to later symptoms after birth. This is known as congenital CMV. Most babies born with cCMV do not develop symptoms, however some are born with symptoms at birth or develop them later in life.

Professional Tools & Resources

Resources for Families

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infections: What Parents Need to Know

View information about Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections, their symptoms and prevention strategies on HealthyChildren.org.

CMV in Newborns

Learn about congenital cytomegalovirus infection, its impact on infants and available resources for prevention and support at the CDC's dedicated page.

Congenital CMV Myth Busters

There is often misinformation associated with congenital CMV that can contribute to a delayed or missed diagnosis and treatment. Here are some of the more common myths.

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Section on Infectious Diseases
The Section on Infectious Diseases (SOID) aims to improve the care of fetuses, newborns, infants, children, adolescents and young adults with infectious conditions and to promote the prevention of these diseases through educating trainees, disseminating knowledge of pediatric infectious diseases, promoting quality and supporting research in infectious diseases.
Committee on Infectious Diseases
The Committee on Infectious Diseases (COID) is committed to supporting the optimal health of all children and adolescents by developing recommendations for diagnostics, treatment and control measures of infectious diseases.
Last Updated

06/11/2025

Source

American Academy of Pediatrics