The NSW Government is partnering with the Cerebral Palsy Alliance to increase awareness of congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV).
CMV is a common virus which can be passed from pregnant mother to baby, and can impact the baby’s brain development, in some cases leading to lifelong disabilities such as cerebral palsy, hearing loss, or epilepsy.
If diagnosed early, antiviral medication can be given to the pregnant mother to reduce the risk of the virus passing to the developing baby.
A $850,000 contribution from the NSW Government will support collaboration between NSW Health and the Cerebral Palsy Alliance to increase awareness of CMV and promote hygiene-based prevention strategies.
“Expecting a baby can be one of the most exciting times in your life, but it can also bring uncertainty and anxiety for some families. This is about making sure families have the information they need as they get ready to welcome their new bub,” said Minister for Health, Ryan Park.
“We know that CMV can lead to lifelong disabilities for developing babies, but we also know it can be prevented. Ensuring families are aware of CMV and understand the simple steps they can take to reduce the risk of infection is crucial.
“We are delighted to be supporting the work of Cerebral Palsy Alliance, an organisation which has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to improving the lives of people with cerebral palsy and raising awareness of CMV.”
The awareness campaign will focus on supporting pregnant women and those planning pregnancy to know how to reduce their risk of CMV infection in pregnancy.
Cerebral Palsy Alliance CEO, Rob White said the organisation welcomed Minister Park and the NSW Government’s commitment to improving awareness of CMV.
“For too long, many women have completed their pregnancies without ever hearing about CMV, despite national guidelines recommending they receive this information. Every expectant parent deserves timely, evidence-based advice that can help reduce the risk of congenital CMV,” said Mr White.
“This campaign is an important opportunity to reach women at the right time with practical information that can help protect babies and reduce the lifelong impact of congenital CMV on Australian families,” he said.
“This investment will help put CMV on the radar for families, giving them the knowledge they need to stay healthy and protect their baby’s brain during pregnancy. It will also equip health professionals with the information they need to support women and families at this important time,” said Chair of the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Institute, Professor Nadia Badawi AM.
“Because a simple conversation at the right time could change the course of a baby’s life.”
Further information on CMV can be found on the Cerebral Palsy Alliance website.
