Group B streptococcal septicemia of the newborn

Alternative names:

group B streptococcus; Lancefield group B streptococcus; sepsis of the newborn; streptococcus agalactiae

Prevention:

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that pregnant women be tested for group B strep sometime between weeks 26 and 28of pregnancy. Another approach recommended to clinitians by the CDC is to do a prenatal screening culture at 35 to 37 weeks of pregnancy . Due to on going studies, these guidelines may change in the future. Studies suggest that giving antibiotics to pregnant women before onset of labor or membrane rupture is unlikely to prevent group B strep disease in the newborn. It is recommended to give IV antibiotic to women with positive cultures during labor. Infants should be delivered as quickly and as safely as possible after the membranes rupture. Proper hand washing by nursery caretakers, visitors, and parents helps prevent transmission after the infant is born. A high index of suspicion increases the likelihood of an early diagnosis in infants who "don't look quite right." Although early diagnosis is not preventative, it can help prevent some of the more devastating complications.