Group B streptococcus is a bacterium commonly present in the intestines and lower genital tract. It can be found in about 25% of healthy adult women and, while harmless in adults, is a major cause of invasive infection in newborns. Group B affects about 1 in every 2,000 babies born in the U.S. Babies with group B strep disease may have fever, difficulty feeding, or lethargy within the first week after birth. Those with late-onset group B strep disease may show those symptoms in addition to difficulty breathing. In severe cases, the disease can cause meningitis, pneumonia, or stillbirth.
Pregnant women may be screened for strep B towards the end of pregnancy, typically between the 35th and 37th week of pregnancy. Women who have tested positive have a 1 in 200 chance of delivering a baby with group B strep disease if antibiotics are not given during a vaginal delivery. If antibiotics are given, the chance drops to 1 in 4000.
We are currently enrolling for strep B vaccine research study. Women between the ages of 18 and 40 may qualify. Click here to learn more.
Mayo Clinic: Group B Strep Disease
American Pregnancy Association: Group B Strep Infection: GBS
