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[Group B streptococci in pregnancy--guidelines for routine examinations and treatment. American Academy of
1Kvinneklinikken, Haukeland Sykehus, Bergen.
Insights
Group B streptococcus (GBS) causes severe newborn infections. Guidelines exist to prevent GBS, and adopting them in Norway is recommended to protect infants.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Neonatal Health
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- Group B streptococci (GBS) are a significant cause of serious neonatal infections, including sepsis and meningitis.
- GBS colonizes the genital tracts of 5-40% of pregnant women, leading to colonization in 50-70% of their infants.
- Severe perinatal GBS infections impact 1-5 infants per 1,000 live births.
Purpose:
- To review the epidemiology of Group B streptococcal infections in newborns.
- To describe the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines for preventing GBS infections.
- To recommend the adoption of AAP guidelines in Norway.
Summary:
- Group B streptococci (GBS) are a leading cause of severe infections in newborns.
- Colonization rates in pregnant women and infants are high, posing a significant risk for perinatal infections.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has developed guidelines to prevent GBS infections.
Impact:
- Implementing preventative strategies can reduce the incidence of severe GBS infections in newborns.
- Adoption of AAP guidelines in Norway could significantly improve neonatal outcomes.
- Early detection and management of GBS colonization are crucial for preventing serious infant infections.
Abstract:
Group B streptococci are a major cause of serious infections in the newborn, and also cause chorioamnionitis, late abortions, puerperal infections and sepsis. Group B streptococci are harboured in the genital tract of 5-40% of pregnant women, and 50-70% of their infants are colonized. Severe perinatal infections caused by group B streptococci affect 1-5 infants per 1,000 live births. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have issued guidelines for preventing group B streptococcal infections. These are described, and it is suggested that these should be adopted in Norway.