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Understanding Group B Strep: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Group B Strep (GBS) is a bacterial infection that can affect newborns during childbirth or in their first few months of life. If left untreated, GBS can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, or a blood infection called sepsis. However, with proper testing and treatment, this infection is preventable.

What Causes Group B Strep?

Group B Strep bacteria naturally live in the intestines and genital tract, including the vagina. Approximately 1 in 4 pregnant women carry these bacteria without any symptoms. While GBS is generally harmless to adults, it can pose a risk to newborns during delivery.

How Do Babies Get Group B Strep?

Babies can contract GBS during a vaginal delivery if the mother carries the bacteria. The risk of infection is higher in the following situations:

  • Preterm delivery (before 37 weeks)

  • Prolonged rupture of membranes (water breaking 18 hours or more before delivery)

  • Infection of the amniotic fluid or placenta

  • Previous baby with GBS infection

  • Maternal fever higher than 100.4°F during labor

Babies can develop two types of GBS infection:

  1. Early-onset: Starts during the first week of life, acquired during delivery.

  2. Late-onset: Starts a week to a few months after birth, possibly acquired at home or in the community.

Symptoms of Group B Strep in Babies

Newborns with GBS may exhibit the following symptoms:

  • Fever

  • Abnormal breathing (fast, slow, or strained)

  • Difficulty feeding

  • Extreme fatigue

  • Irritability

  • Bluish skin color

If left untreated, GBS can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, or sepsis. These conditions can be life-threatening and may cause long-term problems like hearing loss, learning difficulties, cerebral palsy, or seizures.

Diagnosing Group B Strep

Pregnant women are typically tested for GBS between weeks 35 and 37 of pregnancy. The doctor will take a swab from the vagina and rectum and send it to a lab for analysis. A positive result indicates the presence of GBS bacteria.

If a newborn shows symptoms of GBS infection, doctors may take a sample of the baby's blood or spinal fluid for testing. A chest X-ray may also help diagnose the infection.

Treating Group B Strep

If a pregnant woman tests positive for GBS, antibiotics (usually penicillin or ampicillin) will be administered during labor to prevent the transmission of the infection to the baby. For those allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics are available.

Newborns with GBS infection may require intravenous antibiotics, fluids, oxygen, and other supportive treatments to manage symptoms.

Preventing Group B Strep Infection

While researchers are working on a vaccine to protect mothers and babies from GBS, it is not yet available. The most effective way to prevent early-onset GBS infection is through antibiotic treatment during labor for mothers who test positive for the bacteria.

It is important to note that antibiotics given during labor will not prevent late-onset GBS infections. Parents should remain vigilant for any symptoms of GBS in their baby, especially during the first three months of life.

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods for Group B Strep, expectant parents can work with their healthcare providers to ensure the best possible outcomes for their newborns.

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