Newborn medical screening bill passes Iowa Senate

Newborns in Iowa would be tested for congenital cytomegalovirus if a screening demonstrates hearing loss under a bill passed Wednesday night by the Iowa Senate.

Cytomegalovirus, or CMV, is a common virus that infects people of all ages, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Health Prevention.  Most people infected with CMV show no signs or symptoms. However, CMV infection can cause serious health problems for people with weakened immune systems, as well as babies infected with the virus before they are born, experts said.

Senate File 51, which now heads to the House for consideration, says the testing requirement would need to be accomplished before the newborn is 21 days old. In addition, information would be provided to the parent of the newborn regarding birth defects caused by congenital cytomegalovirus and early intervention and treatment resources and services available for children diagnosed with it. However, the testing requirement would not apply if the parent objects.

Sen. Jake Chapman, R-Adel, the bill's floor manager, said the complications of CMV can be as extensive as death, adding he would like to see this bill be extended to across-the-board screenings. However, Chapman and several other lawmakers said they were happy the legislation is moving forward.

"This is certainly a step in the right direction for some of these kids," said Sen. Pam Jochum, D-Dubuque.

The  Senate bill, which was approved on a 49-0 vote, also proposes educational and awareness campaigns regarding cytomegalovirus and congenital cytomegalovirus. The initiatives would be targeted towards women who may become pregnant, expectant  parents, parents of infants, attending health care providers, and others.