Strep B   

Date: 12 February 2019

Over the last few months you may have seen news stories about Strep B. This is an issue we have experience of through cases we have dealt with. Here is an explanation of what Strep B is and the affects it can have.

Strep B, or Group B Streptococcus Bacterium, is a common bacteria found in roughly 2 out of 5 people carried in the rectum or vagina. It is usually harmless to adult carriers but can become dangerous when passed from a mother to a baby. Whilst this is uncommon, strep b is passed on in about 1 in 1,750 pregnancies, it can have very damaging effects.

If it is passed on Strep B can cause babies to develop serious problems such as sepsis or meningitis and can cause lasting difficulties such as loss of hearing and vision. Its effects can also be delayed in the baby, leading to other problems such as cerebral palsy. Sadly, and though extremely rare, as has been reported in the news it can also have fatal consequences for the baby.

However, once identified Strep B is extremely easy to treat. Depending on how early it is discovered antibiotics can be taken either during the pregnancy or through a vein during labour. If it is found soon after the baby has been born, then the baby can also be treated with antibiotics through a vein.

Unfortunately, Strep B is not something that is scanned for during pregnancy in this country, despite it being so easily treatable. If you are worried, please speak to a midwife or a GP for advice. There is a test that can be taken, either at home or through a private clinic, that costs around £35.

The symptoms that can develop in a baby up three months after birth are:
• being floppy and unresponsive
• grunting when breathing
• an unusually high or low temperature
• very fast or slow breathing
• a very fast or slow heart rate
If your baby has any of these symptoms call 999 or go to A&E as they may need antibiotics in hospital immediately.

Whilst some of the possible outcomes relating to Strep B are frightening, we want to reassure you that they are very rare and that it is treatable when discovered.

Below we have provided links to the ECM test, and a petition for tests to be provided on the NHS.

As always if you or a family member has any questions relating to Strep B, or other difficulties encountered at birth please call us on 01253 356051 for free advice.