Question 6.
``I am looking for some information about Group B b haemolytic streptococci. I am a carrier of this bacteria. After birth, my child had been infected and developed meningitis. What will happen when I get pregnant again, how did I get it and will I ever get rid of it?" (Holland)Answer
The group B b haemolytic streptococci bacteria is found naturally in the vagina of 1 in five expectant mothers. It may occasionally infect the baby within a few hours or days of birth causing meningitis and/or septicaemia. The illness can also occur later, up to two months after delivery, when the infection may be contracted from other people. The bacteria can also be found in the throats and intestines of people of all ages. Research has shown that babies born prematurely, babies of low birth weight, babies with congenital abnormalities and babies born after a long labour, are more vulnerable.
Unfortunately, attempts to stop individuals carrying these bacteria often fail. Attempts have been made to screen mothers during pregnancy by taking vaginal swabs and then treating the carriers. Since people are often carriers for varying lengths of time, this was not found to be effective.
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