Prevention of Perinatal Group B Streptococcus Infections

Abstract

Group B streptococcus (GBS) is a leading cause of neonatal infection. Maternal vaginal-rectal colonization with GBS during the intrapartum period is a prerequisite for GBS early-onset disease (EOD). The obstetric measures for effective prevention of GBS EOD include universal prenatal screening by vaginal-rectal culture, correct specimen collection and processing, appropriate implementation of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis, and coordination with pediatric care providers. It is now recommended to universal screen GBS between 360/7and 376/7weeks of gestation and to identify groups of women who are eligible for intravenous intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis as a means of preventing GBS EOD.