'Elizabeth's law,' named for CNY couple's daughter, would boost CMV awareness

When she worked as a child care provider, Lisa Saunders wasn't aware of cytomegalovirus and how it can affect young children. She's hoping a bill authored by state Sen. John Mannion, who represents Cayuga and Onondaga counties, will raise awareness about the virus. 

Mannion, D-Geddes, has introduced legislation that would require all child care providers in New York to receive training on congenital cytomegalovirus, which can cause birth defects. The training would include information about the "occurrence and transmission" of the virus, according to the bill's text. Participants in the training would learn about how CMV is diagnosed, what preventative measures are available and how the virus is treated.

The bill is named "Elizabeth's law" in honor of Saunders' daughter, who died in 2006. Lisa Saunders and her husband, Jim, live in Baldwinsville. Jim Saunders is an Auburn native. 

To view the full story, click here.