June 2021 is Arizona CMV Awareness Month
June 2021 is Arizona CMV Awareness Month
We are happy to announce that Governor Douglas A. Ducey has proclaimed June 2021 to be CMV Awareness Month in Arizona.
On behalf of Stop CMV AZ, and our partner organizations across Arizona, we support this opportunity to raise awareness of congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) among healthcare providers, women of childbearing age, and parents.
CMV is a common virus that is easily transmitted through bodily fluids such as saliva (drool), urine (pee), mucus (snot), or tears. For most healthy adults, a CMV infection comes and goes with mild, if any, symptoms. However, if a woman catches CMV during pregnancy, her developing baby can also be infected.
Congenital CMV (cCMV) is the most common viral cause of birth defects and developmental disabilities.
Each year, 1 in 200 babies is infected with CMV before birth. 1 in 5 of these infants will develop lifelong disabilities.
We need your help to promote awareness, increase education, and make a difference.
Because every pregnant woman is at risk for catching CMV.
Because 400-600 babies are infected with cCMV in Arizona each year.
Because more than 80 of these children will be permanently disabled.
Thank you for joining us to raise awareness of cCMV in Arizona! Stay tuned to our website and social channels for updates.
STATE OF ARIZONA PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common congenital infection in the United States with about 1 in 200 children born with congenital CMV; and
WHEREAS, congenital CMV is the most common cause of birth defects in childhood disabilities in the United States, and 40 to 60% of infants born with signs of congenital CMV disease at birth will have long-term health problems; and
WHEREAS, congenital CMV is preventable with simple behavioral interventions while pregnant, such as practicing frequent hand washing with soap and water after contact with diapers and oral secretions, not kissing young children on the mouth, and not sharing utensils with young children, and
WHEREAS, most people are not aware of their CMV infection status, with pregnant women being one of the highest risk groups; and
WHEREAS, CMV infection is more common that the combined metabolic or endocrine disorders currently in the United States core newborn screening panel; and
WHEREAS, the incidence of children born with congenital CMV can be greatly reduced with public education and awareness.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Douglas A. Ducey, Governor of the State of Arizona, do hereby proclaim June 2021 as
ARIZONA CMV AWARENESS MONTH
How to support Arizona CMV Awareness Month
Get Social
Subscribe for updates and Follow @StopCMVAZ on Facebook, Instagram, or on Twitter @ProfMuldoon. Follow us, like, share, and participate to #stopcmv.
CMV Awareness Profile Picture Frame
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Share your CMV Story
One of the most effective and powerful ways to raise awareness is to share your story. You can read about other Arizona families who have shared their journeys with CMV here. To share your story, please contact us.
Join the cause to #screen4cmv
StopCMV AZ supports universal newborn screening for cCMV. Screening every child for CMV at birth opens the door for identification, early intervention, child and family support, and better developmental outcomes. The National CMV Foundation is advocating for cCMV to be added to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP), a national recommendation that guides and supports states in the development of their newborn screening programs. Sign the petition today to show your support!
Why universal screening?
Congenital CMV is common – 1 in 200 babies are infected with congenital CMV, but most cases are not diagnosed.
cCMV is the leading viral cause of lifelong disabilities, including hearing loss, vision loss, physical disabilities like cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, and developmental delays.
Early detection and intervention improves outcomes for all infected infants.
cCMV is detectable at birth using simple, painless, and affordable screening tests.
It’s time to #screen4cmv
CMV Awareness Around the World
Stop CMV AZ joins with amazing partners around the world on a global campaign for CMV Awareness Month. Make sure to check out the incredible work being done by our friends at:
