Group B Strep (cont.)
What are the symptoms of group B strep infection?
In newborns, most GBS infections occur during the first week of life, often during the first 24 hours. Infection during this period is termed early-onset disease. If
group B strep infection occurs from 1 week to 3 months of age, it is termed late-onset disease. Signs and symptoms that may be observed with GBS
infection include
- fever,
- breathing problems/grunting sounds,
- seizures,
- limpness or stiffness,
- heart rate and blood pressure abnormalities,
- poor feeding, and
- fussiness.
Infection with GBS in babies may result in bloodstream infection (sepsis), lung infection (pneumonia), infection of the fluid and lining surrounding the brain (meningitis), or occasionally death.
In pregnant women, infection with GBS may cause urinary tract infection, infection of the uterus and placenta, as well as stillbirth. In some individuals with chronic medical conditions, such as cancer or diabetes, GBS may cause pneumonia, urinary tract infection, sepsis, and/or skin infection (cellulitis).
How is group B strep infection diagnosed?
In pregnant women, routine screening for colonization with GBS is recommended. This test is generally performed between 35-37 weeks of gestation. The test involves using a swab to collect a sample from both the vaginal and rectal area, and results are usually available within 24-72 hours.
In newborns, GBS infection can be diagnosed with blood tests and/or spinal-fluid analysis. Similar testing may be used to diagnose the disease in adults.
Next: What is the treatment for group B strep infection? »
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