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Invasive group B streptococcal disease in infants: a 19-year nationwide study. Serotype distribution, incidence and

K Ekelund1, H B Konradsen

  • 1Streptococcus Unit, Department of Bacteriology, Mycology and Parasitology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark. kej@ssi.dk

Epidemiology and Infection
|January 8, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Invasive group B streptococcal (GBS) infections in Danish infants remain a concern, with serotype III being most common. Recurrent GBS infections occurred in 1% of infants, with identical serotypes in repeat cases.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Pediatrics
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Invasive group B streptococcal (GBS) disease poses a significant threat to neonates.
  • Understanding GBS epidemiology, serotype distribution, and recurrence is crucial for prevention and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the incidence, serotype distribution, and recurrence patterns of invasive GBS disease in Danish infants from 1984-2002.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 472 invasive GBS cases in infants aged 0-90 days in Denmark.
  • Serotyping of GBS isolates and Pulse Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE) for recurrent cases.
  • Assessment of antibiotic susceptibility for paired isolates.

Main Results:

  • Overall GBS incidence was 0.4/1000 live births, with 73% being early-onset infections.
  • Serotype III predominated (59%), followed by Ia (16%) and Ib (8%).
  • Six infants (1%) experienced recurrent GBS infections, with identical serotypes and indistinguishable isolates between episodes.

Conclusions:

  • Invasive GBS infections continue to be a public health issue in Denmark.
  • Recurrent GBS infections in infants are uncommon but occur with consistent serotypes.
  • Further research into GBS prevention and management strategies is warranted.

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