Overview
Group B strep (GBS), or Streptococcus agalactiae, is a bacterium commonly found in the intestines or lower genital tract. While it typically doesn't cause harm in healthy adults, it can lead to serious illnesses in newborns and vulnerable adults.
Types of Group B strep disease
- Early-Onset GBS Disease:
- Occurs within the first week of life in newborns.
- Transmitted from the mother during childbirth.
- Late-Onset GBS Disease:
- Develops within the first three months of life in infants.
- Transmission often occurs postnatally, possibly through breast milk.
Causes of Group B strep disease
- Colonization: GBS colonizes the intestines and genital tract.
- Transmission: Can be transmitted to infants during childbirth or through contact with contaminated surfaces.
- Vulnerable Adults: Infections can occur in adults with chronic conditions like diabetes or liver disease.
Risk Factors of Group B strep disease
- Pregnancy: Pregnant women can pass GBS to their babies.
- Chronic Medical Conditions: Diabetes, liver disease, and other chronic illnesses increase susceptibility.
- Age: Older adults are at higher risk due to weakened immune systems.
Symptoms of Group B strep disease
1. Newborns: Fever
Difficulty feeding
Lethargy.
2. Adults: Fever
Skin infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Preventions of Group B strep disease
- Screening: Pregnant women should undergo GBS screening during the third trimester.
- Antibiotics: Administer intrapartum antibiotics to GBS-positive women during labor.
- Hygiene: Practice good hygiene to reduce transmission risk.
Diagnosis of Group B strep disease
- Screening Tests: Cultures from vaginal and rectal swabs.
- Blood Tests: To detect infection in newborns and adults.
- Imaging: Used to assess complications like pneumonia or meningitis.
Treatment for Group B strep disease
- Intravenous Antibiotics: Administered to newborns and adults with GBS infection.
- Supportive Care: Monitor and manage symptoms, such as fever and respiratory distress.
- Long-term Care: Follow-up for newborns to ensure complete recovery and monitor for late-onset complications.
When to seek medical attention ?
- Pregnant Women: Immediately after receiving a positive GBS screening test.
- Newborns: At the first sign of fever, lethargy, or feeding difficulties.
- Adults: If experiencing fever, skin infections, or urinary symptoms that could indicate GBS infection.
