(WTNH)– Author and representative of the Congenital Cytomegalovirus Foundation, Lisa Saunders, and CT’s American Academy of Pediatrics Early Hearing Detection & Intervention Chapter Champion, Brenda K. Balch, MD, talk about Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV), the leading viral cause of birth defects, that causes more disabilities than Down syndrome.

According to the CDC, more than 5,000 children each year suffer permanent disabilities caused by CMV infection. See: www.cdc.gov/cmv

The Congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Foundation raises awareness about maternal testing for first infection during pregnancy, newborn testing and the need to develop a vaccine. For more information, go to www.congenitalcmv.org.

Watch the video for what women should know before they become pregnant and what expectant mothers should know about preventing congenital CMV.