Group B Streptococcal Infections

GBS remains an important neonatal pathogen despite a dramatic decline in the incidence of invasive disease. Strong evidence exists demonstrating the importance of obtaining maternal cultures to determine who requires intrapartum prophylaxis in an attempt to prevent early onset sepsis. Unfortunately, this approach has not changed the incidence of LOD, so it is important to keep GBS as part of the differential diagnosis when evaluating infants who show late signs consistent with infection. Prevention measures as outlined in the 2010 CDC guidelines (9) and the 2011 American Academy of Pediatrics Policy Statement (10) should be followed in clinical practice.