CMV represents a substantial but under-studied public health issue. This research will help to answer two research questions that have major public health impact: (i) What is the long-term effect of CMV infection during the perinatal period on children’s cognitive function? And (ii) do children’s health sequelae differ by mother’s or children’s genetic profile, particularly the genetic variations in the immune response and inflammation pathways? The results of this project will shape the management strategy of CMV during the perinatal period. Furthermore, understanding the host genetic control may help to identify the vulnerable population for target surveillance