What can be done to prevent the infection?

This infection is often preventable. Pregnant women should have their vagina and rectum checked for GBS toward the end of pregnancy. If a woman is found to have GBS, she can be given antibiotics during labor. This kills the GBS bacteria in the mother and reduces the chance of infection in the child. Good prenatal care is important to allow the detection and treatment of GBS in the mother. The rate of this infection is actually decreasing. This is because pregnant women are being screened and given preventive antibiotics during labor if they have GBS.

GBS infection acquired after birth is harder to prevent. Infants born to infected mothers should be watched closely for the first several weeks of life. The healthcare provider should see the infant right away if there are signs of infection. People should always wash their hands before handling a newborn, especially after using the toilet.

What are the long-term effects of the infection?

This infection can be quite serious. This is especially true when the infection spreads and affects the brain. There is a small chance of death. The risk of death is highest in very small infants or those who are in shock.

Twenty to 30% of infants may develop permanent brain damage. This may result in mental retardation, paralysis, seizures, blindness, deafness, and other problems. An additional 15% to 25% of children have milder problems, such as learning difficulties.