How Do You Get Group B Strep?

What is Group B Strep?

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a type of bacteria that can be found in the digestive and lower genital tracts of healthy adults. It is estimated that 10-30% of pregnant women carry GBS, but most of them do not experience any symptoms or complications.

GBS is not usually harmful to healthy adults, but it can cause serious infections in newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with low birth weight. In rare cases, GBS can also cause infections in adults with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly or those with chronic illnesses.

GBS infections in newborns can be life-threatening, and can cause complications such as sepsis (blood infection), meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord), and pneumonia (lung infection). It is important for pregnant women to be tested for GBS and receive appropriate treatment if they test positive, to reduce the risk of transmitting the bacteria to their newborns.

How Does Group B Strep Spread?

GBS is usually spread through contact with bodily fluids, such as urine, saliva, and blood. In the case of newborns, GBS can be transmitted from the mother’s genital tract to the baby during delivery.

GBS can also be spread through direct contact with an infected person, such as through kissing or sexual contact. In rare cases, GBS can be transmitted through food or water that is contaminated with the bacteria.

It is important to note that not everyone who carries GBS will develop an infection, and not all newborns born to GBS-positive mothers will become infected. However, the risk of transmission and infection can be reduced through proper testing and treatment during pregnancy, as well as through hygiene measures such as washing hands frequently and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.

Who is at Risk for Group B Strep Infection?

As mentioned earlier, GBS is commonly found in the digestive and lower genital tracts of healthy adults, and it is estimated that 10-30% of pregnant women carry the bacteria. However, not everyone who carries GBS will develop an infection.

Newborns are at the highest risk of GBS infection, particularly those born to mothers who are GBS-positive. Other risk factors for GBS infection in newborns include premature birth, low birth weight, and prolonged rupture of membranes (when the amniotic sac breaks before labor begins).

In addition to newborns, adults with weakened immune systems are also at higher risk for GBS infection. This includes the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those with weakened immune systems due to medications or medical treatments.

It is important for pregnant women to be tested for GBS and receive appropriate treatment if they test positive, to reduce the risk of transmitting the bacteria to their newborns. Adults with weakened immune systems should also take steps to reduce their risk of infection, such as practicing good hygiene and avoiding contact with sick individuals.

Symptoms and Complications of Group B Strep Infection

As mentioned earlier, not everyone who carries GBS will develop an infection. However, in some cases, GBS can cause serious infections that require medical treatment.

Symptoms of GBS infection in newborns may include fever, difficulty feeding, lethargy, and irritability. In severe cases, GBS can cause sepsis (blood infection), meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord), and pneumonia (lung infection). These infections can be life-threatening and require prompt medical attention.

In adults with weakened immune systems, GBS can cause a variety of infections, including bloodstream infections, pneumonia, and meningitis. Symptoms may include fever, chills, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. These infections can also be life-threatening, particularly in individuals with underlying medical conditions.

It is important to seek medical attention if you or your newborn experience symptoms of GBS infection, particularly if you are in a high-risk group for infection. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications.

Prevention and Treatment of Group B Strep Infection

Prevention and treatment of GBS infection depends on the individual’s risk factors and circumstances.

Pregnant women who test positive for GBS should receive antibiotics during labor to reduce the risk of transmitting the bacteria to their newborns. Antibiotics are usually administered through an IV and are effective in reducing the risk of infection in newborns.

In addition to antibiotics, good hygiene practices can also help reduce the risk of GBS transmission. This includes frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.

For adults with weakened immune systems, treatment of GBS infection typically involves antibiotics. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide supportive care.

It is important to seek medical attention if you or your newborn experience symptoms of GBS infection, particularly if you are in a high-risk group for infection. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications.