GROUP B STREP INFECTION

Overview and Facts

Group B strep infection, also known as GBS or Group B Streptococcus, is caused by bacteria present in a person’s vaginal or rectal region. GBS affects around 25% of pregnant women, but they are unaware of it since it does not create symptoms. During vaginal birth, a pregnant woman with GBS might spread the bacterium to her baby. Group B strep infections are more likely to occur in infants, the elderly, and anyone with a weak or underdeveloped immune system.

GBS is capable of causing infections in the blood, lungs, skin, and bones. Approximately 1 in 4 women have GBS. GBS may cause infection of the urinary system, placenta, uterus, and amniotic fluid in pregnant women. During labour and delivery, pregnant mothers may transmit the virus to their infants, even if they have not had any signs of infection.

Types and Symptoms

TYPES

GBS bacteria can cause several types of infections:

  • Meningitis 
  • Pneumonia 
  • Skin and soft-tissue infections
  • Bone and joint infections
  • Bacteremia and Sepsis 

SYMPTOMS

Differences in the symptoms of group B strep infection between babies and those of other ages can be seen.

In newborns and mothers

Symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Irritability or lethargy
  • Blue-ish color to the skin
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Difficulty feeding

In adults

Distinct symptoms may appear depending on the afflicted area of the body.

Symptoms of Bacteremia and Sepsis include: 

  • Fever
  • low vigilance
  • Chills

Bacteremia is an infection of the bloodstream, while Sepsis is the body’s overpowering and potentially fatal response to infection that can cause organ failure, tissue damage, and death.

Infections of the skin and soft tissues often manifest as a lump or infected spot on the skin that could be:

  • Warm to the touch
  • Red skin 
  • Full of pus or another drainage
  • Swollen or painful
  • Fever 

Pneumonia (lung infection) symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
  • Cough
  • Chills
  • Chest pain

Bone and joint infections 

Pain in the affected area is a common symptom of bone and joint infections. It also includes:

  • Immobility or stiffness of the afflicted limb or joint
  • Chills
  • Swelling
  • Fever

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

After a complete history and physical examination, the doctor may prescribe the following tests depending upon the type of infection;

  • Blood tests
  • Urine examination
  • Chest X-Ray
  • Spinal fluid examination

TREATMENT

Antibiotics of the beta-lactam class, such as ampicillin and penicillin, are frequently prescribed to treat group B strep infections. Diseases of the bone and soft tissues may call for invasive surgical treatment. The form of infection caused by GBS bacteria will determine the treatment. Patients should discuss particular treatment choices with their or their child’s doctor.

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