Prevention of Group B streptococcal infections: A review of literature

Dr Mohammed Rafiyuddin; Najia Albashir Mahdawi

Volume : VII, Issue : III, March - 2018

Prevention of Group B streptococcal infections: A review of literature

Dr Mohammed Rafiyuddin, Najia Albashir Mahdawi

Abstract :

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is an important cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality in many parts of the world. Intra–partum use of antibiotics in these women has led to a decrease in the rate of early onset but not late onset GBS disease.dentification of women with GBS is the key factor in the prevention of perinatal GBS disease. Asymptomatic colonisation of the vagina and rectum with Group B streptococci is common in pregnancy.Maternal colonisation of GBS can vary depending on ethnicity and geographical distribution. Vertical transmission of this organism from mother to foetus may lead to neonatal GBS disease. There are different screening strategies available to identify women at risk of perinatal GBS disease. Clinicians continue to face the challenge of choosing between preventive strategies to reduce the impact of perinatal GBS disease. Controversy exists regarding the ideal preventive strategy. In India, the mortality and morbidity associated with the GBS disease remains largely a under–recognised problem. This comprehensive review summarises the salient features of GBS disease and discusses the epidemiology, risk factors, screening strategies, intra–partum antibiotic prophylaxis