In January 2023, Florida introduced a targeted screening program to identify congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) in newborns who do not pass their hearing tests, with the primary objective of promptly identifying and supporting infants at risk of hearing impairment and developmental challenges linked to cCMV infection, which stands as the foremost viral cause of hearing loss in infants across the United States. The prevalence of cCMV varies globally, with the highest rates observed among certain demographic groups, such as Black infants in the US, where prevalence rates are notably elevated. Several factors contribute to the increased risk of delivering an infant with cCMV in urban populations, including young maternal age, direct childcare responsibilities, and maternal HIV infection. Clinical manifestations of cCMV range from asymptomatic to severe, with symptoms encompassing thrombocytopenia, microcephaly, seizures, and other complications, though mortality rates remain relatively low.

To assist healthcare providers in navigating the complexities of neonatal cCMV evaluation, the Emerging Infections Task Force of the Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics has devised an algorithm that outlines a structured approach for identifying infants requiring testing and offers guidance on further evaluations and when to consider infectious disease consultation, thus facilitating early intervention and support for affected infants and their families.

Download a PDF of the CMV Evaluation Algorithm here.

The distribution of this Algorithm is made possible through funding from the AAP Section on Infectious Diseases.