Late-onset Group B Streptococcal Disease

Late-onset Group B Streptococcal Disease (GBS) affects infants between one week and three months old. It is caused by the Group B Streptococcus bacteria, which can be found in the intestines and genital tracts of some adults. Unlike early-onset GBS, which occurs within the first week of life, late-onset GBS can lead to serious health issues, such as pneumonia, meningitis, or sepsis. Infants may initially appear healthy but can develop symptoms rapidly and require urgent medical treatment. Awareness and timely intervention are crucial to manage this condition effectively.