Group B Streptococci also known as GBS is a bacterial infection that can be passed to baby during delivery. These microorganism/bacteria are fatal. GBS is found in a pregnant woman’s vagina or rectum.
GBS is not common in pregnant women but its effect can be severe. Although not every infant who is born to a mother who has been tested GBS positive can become sick. Approximately 1 of every 100-200 babies who are born to mothers who carry GBS will become ill.
Babies may experience early or late-onset of GBS. Early neonatal sepsis occurs during the first 7days of a baby’s life. This can be due to the bacterial infection during labor. The signs and symptoms of early onset GBS include heart and blood pressure instability, breathing problems, kidney and gastrointestinal problems. The most common complications are pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis.
Late-onset neonatal sepsis affects a baby from 1 to 7 weeks and may be due to bacterial infection during labor or infection that comes from the hospital equipment or tools. The signs and symptoms of late-onset GBS include meningitis.
Screening for vaginal strep B for all pregnant women can be dome to find out if you have GBS infection. Screening is best performed between the 35th and 37th week of pregnancy. The test involves a swab of both the rectum and vagina. The sample is then taken to a laboratory where a culture is analyzed for any presence of Group B Streptococci. Test results are normally available within 24 to 48 hours. Intravenous antibiotics (antibiotics given through IV) are recommended during delivery to reduce the chance of your baby becoming sick.
Until now vaccine for GBS infection is unfortunately still to be developed.