25/06/2026
At Oaktree, we have been testing for CMV in those wanting to become pregnant and those who pregnant for over 10 years now, so it's good to see it's now being recognized as a test worthwhile doing for all pregnant patients in Australia routinely.
June is CMV (Cytomegalovirus) Awareness Month, a global campaign to highlight the risks of congenital CMV, Australia's leading infectious cause of newborn disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, hearing loss, intellectual disabilities, and epilepsy.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is extremely common in Australia. It infects about 50% of young adults and up to 85% of people by the time they reach 40. In healthy adults and children, it usually causes no symptoms or a mild, flu-like illness.
However, its impact on unborn babies is significant. Approximately 1 in 200 babies (or about 2,000 infants) are born with congenital CMV in Australia each year. Disabilities: It is the leading infectious cause of birth defects in the country. Around 400 Australian children suffer permanent disabilities annually due to the virus.
If you are planning a family or are already pregnant, it is highly recommended to speak with your GP to ensure you have been tested early in pregnancy or preconception to check if you are protected by already having had CMV in the past.
Together, we can Stop CMV. Share this post with those who might be unaware!
Why Awareness Matters
CMV is a common, often silent virus. However, when contracted for the first time during pregnancy, it can cross the placenta and infect the developing baby, leading to long-term health complications.
How to Reduce the Risk
Prepare: See your GP when planning any pregnancy, and you don’t know your CMV status.
Since there is no vaccine, healthcare organizations like the Cerebral Palsy Alliance and the CDC advocate for three simple preventative steps:
Wash with care: Always wash your hands thoroughly after changing nappies, feeding a child, or wiping noses.
Kiss with care: Avoid contact with saliva. Kiss your child on the forehead rather than the lips.
Don't share: Do not share food, cutlery, drinks, or use a child's dummy/toothbrush in your own mouth.
To learn more, read personal stories, or access prevention resources, consider visiting these support organizations:
https://www.cmv.org.au/
https://cerebralpalsy.org.au/news-stories/cmv-awareness-month-the-most-dangerous-virus-youve-never-heard-of/
https://www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/about-us/news/feature-articles/what-you-can-do-to-protect-your-unborn-baby-from-cmv
Yours in good health,
Dr Mags Llew and your Oaktree Medical Family
