Screening frequency for congenital cytomegalovirus in Flanders, Belgium – a multicentre retrospective study

There was important variability in cCMV screening practices across Flanders. Most hospitals screened fewer than 3% of infants, i.e. lower than the prevalence of microcephaly, a clinical feature that warrants testing for cCMV. Failure to diagnose cCMV in a timely manner limits the opportunities for early treatment with valganciclovir (secondary prevention) and morbidities such as hearing loss (tertiary prevention). There is a pressing need to enhance the knowledge and vigilance of perinatal healthcare professionals in Flanders, ensuring infants at risk of cCMV are appropriately identified and receive timely care.