Disclosed are vaccine-derived neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) for CMV infections and small peptides which define precise recognition elements of the antigens by the NAbs. In certain embodiments, vaccine-derived NAbs may be produced by immunizing a subject with a gH/gL/UL128/UL130/UL131A pentameric glycoprotein complex (gH/gL-PC). In certain embodiments, vaccine-derived NAbs may have properties similar or identical to those of NAbs induced in a subject naturally infected with CMV. Native and non-native small peptides from UL128 and gH have been defined by mapping epitopes and deriving artificial sequences which are minimal recognition elements of vaccine-derived NAbs disclosed herein. These small peptides can be used to elicit vaccine-derived NAbs that prevent CMV entry into susceptible cell types and protect humans from infection and disease. Multivalent vaccines comprising these small peptides and/or epitopes are also disclosed. Kits and methods of using the vaccine-derived NAbs and small peptides disclosed herein including methods of treating or preventing CMV infection in a subject are also provided.
