Changing epidemiology of group B streptoccal colonization

OBJECTIVES: To define factors influencing vertical transmission of and neonatal colonization with group B streptococci (GBS) in neonates representing ethnically and economically diverse populations, and to determine the serotype distribution of isolates, especially new types IV-VIII. STUDY DESIGN: P...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Pediatrics (Evanston) 1999-08, Vol.104 (2), p.203
Main Authors: Hickman, Melissa E, Rench, Marcia A, Ferrieri, Patricia, Baker, Carol J
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Babies
Epidemiology
Illnesses
Pediatrics
Socioeconomic factors
Trends
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Summary:OBJECTIVES: To define factors influencing vertical transmission of and neonatal colonization with group B streptococci (GBS) in neonates representing ethnically and economically diverse populations, and to determine the serotype distribution of isolates, especially new types IV-VIII. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, cross-sectional study of neonates born to women evaluated for GBS colonization at admission for delivery to one of four hospitals between January 1994 and February 1995. Cultures of throat, umbilicus, and rectum were obtained from 24- to 48-hour-old infants for isolation of GBS. Isolates were classified by capsular polysaccharide (I-VIII) and C protein (alpha and beta) antigen components. RESULTS: Colonization was detected in 28% of 546 mothers, was higher in blacks than whites (40.6% vs 20.3%) and Hispanics (26. 9%), and was not influenced by socioeconomic status. Overall, ethnic origin did not seem to be related to GBS serotype, but whites were more likely to carry the new type V strain than blacks (6 out of 24 [25%] vs 1 out of 43 [2%]). Vertical transmission of GBS to neonates was significantly diminished when their mothers had intrapartum antibiotics (0% vs 52%), rupture of membranes
ISSN:0031-4005
1098-4275