Approximately 1 in 4 pregnant women carry GBS, the leading cause of sepsis and meningitis in newborns according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.) GBS can also infect babies during pregnancy and the first few months of life.
Not all babies exposed to GBS become infected, but, for those who do, the results can be devastating. GBS can cause babies to be miscarried, stillborn, born prematurely, become very sick, have lifelong handicaps, or die. Â Even babies born to moms who test negative can become infected by group B strep.
Fortunately there are many ways to help protect babies from group B strep. If you’re pregnant be sure to ask your doctor about how you can get screened. This website contains resources for you to learn more about GBS and help prevent its devastating effects.
