Cleveland Clinic Expanded Infant Virus Screening

A new screening program increased the detection of congenital cytomegalovirus by 2.5 times among local newborns.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Babies

Bold vector editorial illustration of a sterile medical swab on a tray, representing infant virus screening. — Cleveland Clinic Children's program successfully increased detection of congenital cytomegalovirus by 2.5 times using a new targeted testing protocol for local newborns. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should hospitals perform universal screening for congenital infections on all newborns?

Between 2022 and 2025, Cleveland Clinic Children's implemented an expanded screening program for congenital cytomegalovirus. The initiative successfully identified 34 babies with the condition through a targeted testing protocol.

Why it matters

Early identification of congenital cytomegalovirus is critical because it allows for monitoring and medical intervention to improve long-term health outcomes for affected children.

The screening program, which saw annual testing jump from 150 to over 2,000 babies, identified 34 infants with the virus among 7,500 screened. Data indicates 40% of children with virus-related hearing loss pass initial newborn screens.

The players

Cleveland Clinic Children's

This is a pediatric healthcare provider based in Cleveland that offers specialized medical services and conducts clinical research.

The details

The program consists of an initial oral swab followed by a urine sample if necessary to confirm the diagnosis. The findings were officially published in the journal Pediatrics on September 28, 2026.

The screening program operated between 2022 and 2025.
Results were published in the journal Pediatrics on September 28, 2026.

Culture Shift

This initiative reflects a broader movement toward universal or enhanced newborn screening to replace outdated protocols that miss asymptomatic cases. It aligns with the American Academy of Pediatrics newborn screening guidelines by prioritizing early detection as a fundamental pillar of pediatric care.

Parents delivering at Cleveland Clinic locations should be aware of the expanded screening protocols designed to catch conditions that traditional hearing tests might miss. This process involves simple, non-invasive testing that can provide vital health information during the first days of life.

The takeaway

Early testing for congenital cytomegalovirus is essential because traditional newborn hearing screens may fail to detect the virus in 40% of cases involving hearing loss. Parents should consult with their pediatricians to understand available screening options beyond the standard initial evaluations.