Letter Template:
Dear Premier and Minister of Health,
I am writing to urge the Government of Nova Scotia to implement universal newborn screening for congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV).
Congenital CMV is the most common infection passed from a pregnant person to their baby during pregnancy and is a leading cause of preventable childhood hearing loss and developmental disabilities. When identified early, babies can receive appropriate monitoring, interventions, and supports that can significantly improve outcomes.
Today, a baby’s access to early CMV detection depends on where they are born. Babies born in provinces like Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan benefit from universal newborn CMV screening, while babies born in Nova Scotia do not have the same access.
Why should a baby born in Nova Scotia have fewer protections and fewer chances for early detection than a baby born in a province that already offers universal screening?
Every family deserves the same opportunity to know if their baby has congenital CMV as early as possible. Early detection allows healthcare providers and families to make informed decisions and provide children with the support they need during the most critical stages of development.
I am asking the Government of Nova Scotia to take action by implementing universal newborn CMV screening across the province and ensuring that every baby born in Nova Scotia has the same chance for early identification, intervention, and support.
No family should have to wonder whether their child’s condition could have been identified sooner simply because of where they were born.
Thank you for your commitment to improving health outcomes for Nova Scotia families. I hope you will make universal newborn CMV screening a priority and help ensure every baby gets the best possible start.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]