Sen. Blumenthal introduces bill to screen newborns for cytomegalovirus, which can cause deafness and seizures

CONNECTICUT — Connecticut Sen. Richard Blumenthal is making a call to prevent birth defects. 

According to the CDC, one in five babies is born with cytomegalovirus, or CMV, a virus that can cause deafness, seizures and developmental delays. 

Blumenthal introduced a bill that would offer screenings for newborns at hospitals and by health care providers.

He said early screening is key. 

“Screening is the means to intervention and treatment. Screening is a way for parents to understand what the causes may be of a birth defect or a developmental disability,” said Blumenthal. 

The proposal also includes $10 million for education and research.