Group B streptococcal (group B strep) infection, caused from bacteria, is a leading cause of death and disability in newborns.

Symptoms*

• Unstable temperature (low or high)
• Poor feeding
• Appears unwell, stressed or anxious
• Breathing difficulties
  • grunting
  • flaring of the nostrils
  • rapid breathing
  • short periods without breathing
  • blue appearance (cyanosis)
• Rapid heart rate (tachycardia) or extremely slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
• Lethargy
• Coma
• Shock

Tests and Studies*

• Blood culture (grows group B strep)
• CSF culture (cerebrospinal fluid - from a spinal tap)
• Urine culture
• CBC (complete blood count)
• Chest X-ray
• Blood gases
• Coagulation studies

Treatment*
Treatment is often one or a combination of the following:

• IV (intravenous) antibiotics
• IV fluids and medications to reverse shock
• Oxygen therapy
• Correct clotting abnormalities
• Assisted ventilation
• ECMO (Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenator), in very severe cases

High-Risk Groups**

• Previous baby with GBS disease
• Urinary tract infection due to GBS
• GBS carriage late in pregnancy
• Fever during labor
• Rupture of membranes 18 hours or more before delivery
• Labor or rupture of membranes before 37 weeks

To learn about Group B streptococcal screenings, visit the Baby Center.

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