GBS
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a serious infection caused by type of bacterium that accumulates in the human body, most commonly in the vagina, intestines or rectum. It is estimated that about 30-35% of women have GBS in their bodies, and it can be transferred to the baby during delivery. GBS can cause serious health problems for newborns if left untreated, including pneumonia, meningitis, sepsis and even death. While GBS infection is treatable with antibiotics, prevention is key. All pregnant women should receive screening and immunization to reduce the risks associated with GBS infection in babies. Please keep reading for details on the following topics:
Definition of Group B Streptococcal infection
Manifestations of Group B Streptococcal infection
Diagnosis Group B Streptococcal infection
TRANSMISSION OF GROUP B STREPTOCOCCAL INFECTION
From a pregnant woman to her baby during delivery
How infections are transmitted to the fetus
MANIFESTATIONS OF GROUP B STREPTOCOCCAL INFECTION
Fever
Hypothermia (low temperature)
Rapid breathing
Difficulty eating
Fatigue
Sepsis (infection in the blood)
Pneumonia (infection in the lungs)
Meningitis (infection in the brain and spinal cord)
DIAGNOSIS OF GROUP B STREPTOCOCCAL INFECTION
Urine test in pregnant women during the third trimester of pregnancy
Blood tests for babies at risk of the disease
HOW GROUP B STREPTOCOCCOL INFECTION IS TREATED
Antibiotics given to infected women during labor
Antibiotics given to babies after birth
Fluids to infected babies
Oxygen given to infected babies who are very ill