Group B streptococcal disease in UK and Irish infants younger than 90 days

Lancet. 2004 Jan 24;363(9405):292-4. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(03)15389-5.

Abstract

The incidence, morbidity, and mortality of group B streptococcal disease in the UK and Republic of Ireland are largely unknown. Between Feb 1, 2000, and Feb 28, 2001, we identified cases of invasive group B streptococcal disease in infants younger than 90 days through surveillance involving paediatricians, microbiologists, and parents. 568 cases were identified, equivalent to a total incidence of 0.72 per 1000 live-births (95% CI 0.66-0.78); the incidence for early-onset disease (n=377) was 0.48 per 1000 (0.43-0.53), and for late-onset disease (n=191) was 0.24 per 1000 (0.21-0.28). Risk factors were identifiable for 218 (58%) cases of early-onset disease. 53 infants died (overall 9.7%). We have established the minimum current burden of group B streptococcal disease in UK and Irish infants. This information will assist in the formulation of guidelines for prevention of this disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical
  • Ireland / epidemiology
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / epidemiology
  • Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / epidemiology
  • Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / microbiology
  • Risk Factors
  • Streptococcal Infections / epidemiology*
  • Streptococcal Infections / microbiology
  • Streptococcus agalactiae* / isolation & purification
  • United Kingdom / epidemiology