Group B Streptococcal (GBS) infection, also known as group B streptococcus (GBS) disease or group B strep, refers to an infection caused by a bacterial species called Streptococcus agalactiae, commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract, genital tract, and urinary system. GBS is a major cause of infections in newborns, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
In newborns, GBS infection can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia, sepsis (infection in the bloodstream), and meningitis (infection of the lining surrounding the brain and spinal cord). Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, fever, lethargy, poor feeding, and irritability.
Pregnant women may not exhibit any symptoms but can pass the bacteria to their infant during childbirth, increasing the risk of neonatal infection. As a preventive measure, pregnant women are often screened for GBS late in their pregnancy to determine if treatment is necessary during labor.
In individuals with weakened immune systems, GBS infections can manifest as urinary tract infections, skin infections, bone and joint infections, and bloodstream infections.
Treatment typically involves the administration of antibiotics, such as penicillin or ampicillin, to combat the bacterial infection. In newborns with severe infections, intensive care may be required.
Preventive strategies include screening pregnant women for GBS colonization, administering antibiotics during labor to prevent transmission to the newborn, and promoting good hygiene practices to minimize the spread of the bacteria in healthcare settings.
