Neonatal group B streptococcal infection in South Bedfordshire, 1993-1998.
BACKGROUND
Group B streptococcus (GBS) is now the leading cause of neonatal bacterial sepsis in the western world. The incidence of GBS infection in the United States has been determined, and guidelines produced and implemented for the prevention of neonatal infection. Neither incidence nor guidelines are currently established in the United Kingdom.


OBJECTIVE
To define the pattern of neonatal infection within one hospital (Luton and Dunstable Hospital).


METHODS
A six year retrospective analysis was performed.


RESULTS
An incidence of early onset GBS of 1.15 per 1000 deliveries, comparable with that documented in the United States, was found.
Beardsall
K
K
Department of Paediatrics, Luton and Dunstable Hospital, Lewsey Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, UK. kbeardsall@btinternet.com
Thompson
M H
MH
Mulla
R J
RJ
D003428:Cross Infection / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000382:microbiology; D005260:Female; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D010298:Parity; D011247:Pregnancy; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D012923:Social Class; D013290:Streptococcal Infections / Q000097:blood / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000382:microbiology; D013292:Streptococcus agalactiae; D015996:Survival Rate; D006113:United Kingdom / Q000453:epidemiology