Change in prevalence of group B Streptococcus maternal colonisation in Hong Kong.
OBJECTIVE
To re-examine the prevalence of group B Streptococcus colonisation in our antenatal population, and identify demographic factors associated with carriage.


METHODS
Prospective observational study.


METHODS
A tertiary obstetrics unit in Hong Kong.


METHODS
A total of 1002 pregnant women were recruited at the booking clinic in a tertiary obstetrics unit in Hong Kong. High and low vaginal swabs and rectal swabs were taken for group B Streptococcus culture. Demographic data and delivery outcomes of the recruits were analysed.


RESULTS
The prevalence of group B Streptococcus colonisation in our antenatal population was 10.4%. The majority of carriers were identified by low vaginal swabs (78%), while high vaginal swabs and rectal swabs only identified 31% and 30% of the carriers, respectively. Professional women yielded a higher carrier rate than housewives (21% vs 10%, P=0.03). There was no increase in preterm delivery rate in group B Streptococcus carriers.


CONCLUSIONS
We noted a dramatic increase in the prevalence of group B Streptococcus colonisation in the Hong Kong pregnant population at their booking visit. Professional women had a higher colonisation rate compared to other groups.
Tsui
Michelle H Y
MH
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong.
Ip
Margaret
M
Ng
P C
PC
Sahota
Daljit S
DS
Leung
T N
TN
Lau
T K
TK
D000328:Adult; D019072:Antibiotic Prophylaxis; D002353:Carrier State / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000382:microbiology; D005260:Female; D006723:Hong Kong / Q000453:epidemiology; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis; D015995:Prevalence; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013290:Streptococcal Infections / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013292:Streptococcus agalactiae / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D014621:Vagina / Q000382:microbiology