Immunization strategy for prevention of congenital cytomegalovirus infection.

Women of childbearing age are a logical target for a vaccine aimed at prevention of congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections. However, the impact of a CMV vaccine could likely be enhanced by considering the sources of maternal infection and characteristics of mothers of infected newborns. Contact with preschool-age children and sexual activity are important sources of CMV infection for young women. Approximately half of infants with congenital CMV infection in the U.S. are born to unmarried, adolescent mothers. To prevent CMV infection in those who are the sources of maternal infection as well as in young, unmarried mothers, universal immunization of toddlers and preteen children should be considered.