Governor Proclaims National Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Awareness Month 2023

WHEREAS, congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common viral infection in the United States, afflicting one out of every 200 children born; and

WHEREAS, congenital CMV is the most common cause of birth defects and childhood disabilities, and is the leading non-genetic cause of hearing loss, with approximately one child becoming disabled each hour; 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 or oral secretions, not kissing young children on the mouth, and not sharing utensils and food with young children; and

WHEREAS, every pregnant woman is at risk of acquiring CMV and only 9 percent of women know about it; and

WHEREAS, the incidence of children born with congenital CMV can be greatly reduced with public education and awareness; and

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages people to observe CMV Awareness Month by raising awareness of congenital CMV and the measures that can help to prevent infection;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim June, 2023, as “NATIONAL CYTOMEGALOVIRUS (CMV) AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.