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A Murine Model of Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Colonization
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A Murine Model of Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Colonization

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Preventing the broad spectrum of perinatal morbidity and mortality through group B streptococcal vaccination

Morven S Edwards1, Bernard Gonik

  • 1Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA. morvene@bcm.edu

Vaccine
|December 4, 2012
PubMed

Insights

A new group B streptococcal (GBS) vaccine for pregnant women is nearing evaluation. This GBS immunization aims to significantly decrease GBS-related illness and deaths in mothers and newborns globally.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Vaccinology

Background:

  • Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide.
  • Existing GBS prevention strategies have limitations.
  • A safe and effective GBS vaccine for pregnant women is a global health priority.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To define the anticipated impact of a GBS glycoconjugate vaccine on perinatal conditions.
  • To support the rationale for implementing GBS immunization in pregnancy.
  • To reduce the global burden of GBS-related complications.

Main Methods:

  • Review of pregnancy-associated and neonatal conditions linked to GBS.
  • Analysis of GBS-related outcomes in high and lower-income countries.
  • Development and rationale for a GBS glycoconjugate vaccine.

Main Results:

  • GBS significantly contributes to adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes globally.
  • A GBS glycoconjugate vaccine has been developed and is entering Phase 3 trials.
  • Vaccination during pregnancy is expected to reduce GBS-related morbidity and mortality.

Conclusions:

  • GBS glycoconjugate vaccination during pregnancy is a promising strategy to reduce the global burden of GBS disease.
  • The upcoming Phase 3 trial is critical for evaluating vaccine efficacy and safety.
  • Widespread GBS immunization in pregnancy could transform perinatal health outcomes.

Keywords:
CDCCPSCenters for Disease Control and PreventionGBSGroup B StreptococcusIAIMorbidityPROMPerinatalPregnancyPreventionVaccinecapsular polysaccharidegroup B Streptococcusintra-amniotic infectionpremature rupture of membranes

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