GROUP B STREPTOCOCCAL INFECTION

Group B streptococcal infection (GBS) is generated by a common bacteria known as Group B strep, frequently found in the lower genital tract or intestines. This disease is a major source of neonatal sepsis and postpartum illness. In addition, this infection is becoming increasingly prevalent in normal, nonpregnant people, particularly younger to middle-aged women who have diabetes.

In healthy individuals, group B streptococcal infection is typically safe. However, it may cause significant disease in babies. Meanwhile, in individuals who have ongoing medical disorders, including liver or diabetes disease, Group B streptococcal infection may potentially cause severe conditions.

SYMPTOMS

Several forms of infections may result from Group B streptococcal infection. Symptoms of GBS sickness vary depending on the portion of the body affected and between babies and persons of various ages.

Infants’ Symptoms

Most kids born from moms with group B strep infection are normal. Those who become infected with group B strep throughout childbirth, on the other hand, may become seriously unwell. Among the signs and symptoms are:

  • Jaundice
  • Rash
  • Seizures
  • Jitteriness
  • Irritability
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Weak muscle tone, limpness, or sluggishness
  • Difficulty feeding
  • Low body temperature
  • Fever

Adults

Numerous adults acquire group B strep, typically in the throat, bladder, rectum, vagina, or bowel, and have no signs or symptoms. However, in some cases, symptoms of infections may include the following.

  • Infection of the bones or joints
  • Infection of the skin or soft tissue
  • Pneumonia
  • Bacteremia
  • Urinary tract infection

DIAGNOSIS

If physicians believe somebody has a group B strep infection, they will test them through the:

  • Physicians will collect sterile bodily fluid specimens, including spinal and blood fluid. Specialists also test the samples to know whether GBS bacteria proliferate (culture). In addition, since the bacteria needed time to multiply, it may take several days to obtain these findings.
  • A chest x-ray could also be ordered to help assess whether an individual has GBS illness.

GBS bacteria can occasionally induce urinary tract infections. Physicians use urine samples to diagnose UTIs.

TREATMENT

Antibiotics are often used to manage group B streptococcal infection. Bone infections and soft tissue might require extra treatment, including surgery. Take note that the type of infection caused by GBS bacteria will determine the treatment. It is vital to start therapy as soon as possible. Furthermore, while it is not currently accessible, researchers are developing a group B strep vaccine that might aid in the prevention of group B strep infection in the coming years.

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