As part of our mission, CMV Action work hard to raise awareness and share knowledge about congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) amongst healthcare professionals. Despite the impact that cCMV can have on those who it affects, awareness and prevention messaging is still limited amongst health professionals.
Over the past couple of months, our team have been busy with outreach and have been working hard to engage with professionals.
Infections in Pregnancy with RCOG
Last month, our Chair, Sarah , represented CMV Action at an Infections in Pregnancy Education Day hosted by Royal College of Obsetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG).
Around 170 participants joined the session to learn and discuss critical topics. Sarah, chaired two sessions
- Infections in Pregnancy
- Vaccinations in Pregnancy
The day was very successful and well received by everyone who attended.
Working with AVUK – The Impact of congenital cmv (cCMV)
Also in November, Sarah delivered an impactful session on the challenges faced by families and young people affected by CMV, as part of a professional development webinar hosted by AVUK. The event was attended by 55 participants, most of whom were Teachers of the Deaf.
Alongside Sarah, there were presentations from Professor Hermione Lyall, consultant paediatrician with special expertise in paediatric infectious diseases, St Mary’s Hospital, London and Dr Seilesh Kadambari, Consultant in Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Great Ormond Street Hospital. Professor Lyall spoke about the potential impact of cCMV on child development and Dr Kadambari’s presentation was focussed on reducing the impact of cCMV.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants describing the session as “amazing and informative,” “fascinating,” and “fantastic.”
Shared learning with Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust.
Most recently, Sarah spoke at Mid and South East Essex NHS Foundation Trust. This session focussed on the transmission of congenital CMV, testing, treatment and impact on families. It was attended by around 80 staff including Consultants, junior obstetricians, midwives, governance leads, team members and other members of staff e.g. students.
The session was well received with attendees commenting how ‘interesting’ and ‘informative’ the presentation was.
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CMV Action remains committed to raising awareness of CMV through educating professionals and driving awareness to improve outcomes for affected children and families.
Despite progress, we know there is still much work to be done. By continuing to engage professionals, CMV Action is driving change from the ground up, ensuring more families receive accurate information, earlier diagnoses, and better support.
If you would like to talk with us about speaking at your upcoming event, please reach out to our Operations Manager, Leena at info@cmvaction.org.uk to discuss.