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Group B Strep

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the most common life threatening infection in newborns and a leading cause of newborn death in the United States. Group B Strep infects about 3,200 newborns every year in the United States.

One in 20 babies infected with GBS dies from the infection or complications. Surviving babies may endure significant illnesses such as pneumonia, meningitis, sepsis, and long-term medical problems such as hearing or vision loss, learning disabilities, or neurological difficulties.

About 25% of women carry the Group B Strep bacteria, but it is usually not dangerous to women. It can cause bladder and womb infections, but often goes undetected. However in newborns it can result in lifelong damage or even death.

In the fall of 2002, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommended changes in the method of screening of expectant mothers. The CDC's revised guidelines recommend universal prenatal screening for Group B Strep of all pregnant women at 35-37 weeks' gestation. The CDC recommends that women whose culture results are unknown at the time of delivery should be managed according to the clinical risk-based approach.

Dr. Craig Rubens' research at Children's has focused on how Group B Strep bacteria causes infections in newborns and pregnant women. Dr. Rubens has begun to identify the important factors produced by this bacteria, some of which have been targeted for a vaccine or new antibiotic therapies.

Group B Strep Prevention: Key Facts

Key Facts About Group B Strep Prevention:

  1. All pregnant women should have a simple swab culture test done between the 35th and 37th week of pregnancy to identify if they carry GBS.
  2. A baby is typically exposed to GBS as he or she passes through the birth canal, though GBS can also infect an unborn child, causing premature labor and delivery, or even stillbirth.
  3. If a mother is a GBS carrier, at least one dose of antibiotics given during labor and before delivery will help protect the baby from GBS.
  4. Pregnant women should know their care providers' GBS prevention strategy and be aware of their risk for having a baby with a GBS infection.
  5. Even with preventative measures, some newborns still become infected with GBS. Parents should ask their health care provider for a list of GBS warning signs and instructions on how to find help if their newborn exhibits signs of illness in the first days of life.

For GBS advocacy questions, contact Dr. Craig Rubens.