Nursery World - Hidden danger

A bacterial infection threatening babies is described by Jane Plumb, chairman of charity Group B Strep Support A common bacterium, Group B streptococcus, lives in the intestines and/or the vagina of up to 30 per cent of women. Most don't know it's there, as 'carrying' the bacteria doesn't cause any symptoms. But it is important to know about GBS during pregnancy because the baby can be at risk of GBS infection around delivery.

A common bacterium, Group B streptococcus, lives in the intestines and/or the vagina of up to 30 per cent of women. Most don't know it's there, as 'carrying' the bacteria doesn't cause any symptoms. But it is important to know about GBS during pregnancy because the baby can be at risk of GBS infection around delivery.

Without preventive medicine, an estimated one in every 1,000 babies born in the UK develops GBS infection. This equates to approximately 700 sick babies a year, of whom 75 to 100 will die. Out of those who survive, 40 will suffer long-term problems.

Checking for GBS

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