Infection in newborn babies (group B streptococcus)
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Infection in newborn babies (group B streptococcus): Essentials
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Key points about treatments

If your baby is unwell, and you think this may be because of an infection, you should get medical help right away. Babies who have an infection must be treated quickly with antibiotics.

Key messages about prevention and treatment for group B streptococcus infections in babies
  • Newborn babies who have an
     
     
     
     
     
    infection
    You get an infection when viruses, bacteria, fungi or other tiny organisms get into your body. These bugs are so tiny that you can't see them without a microscope. For example, an infection in your airways causes the common cold. And an infection in your skin can cause rashes such as athlete's foot.
     
     
     
     
     
    infection are usually treated quickly with antibiotics.
  • Even if your baby doesn't have symptoms, he or she may be given treatment. This is because your baby may have a high risk of getting an infection.
  • Doctors recommend that you carry on breastfeeding your baby. Breastfeeding will protect your baby from other infections.
     
     
     
     
     
    Source:
    Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.
    Preventing group B streptococcus (GBS) infection in newborn babies: information for you.
    January 2007. Available at http://www.rcog.org.uk/index.asp?PageID=1400 (accessed on 3 February 2009).
     
     
     
     
     
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Sources for the information on this page:
  1. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.Preventing group B streptococcus (GBS) infection in newborn babies: information for you.January 2007. Available at http://www.rcog.org.uk/index.asp?PageID=1400 (accessed on 3 February 2009).
This information was last updated on Feb 05, 2009
BMJ Group
This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2009. All rights reserved.
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