One third of GBS infections are Late-onset Group B Strep infections and can develop in babies between 7- 90 days. Although much less common than an early-onset GBS infection it is more likely if your baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy or you have had a positive Strep B test in your pregnancy. Late-onset Group B Strep infections manifest as meningitis and sepsis, septic arthritis (infection in the joints) and osteomyelitis (infection in the bone).
It is uncommon after 1 month and very rare after 3 months. However, there are no known ways of preventing Late-onset GBS infections, so it is vital that new mothers, fathers and all family and friends know the signs to enable a quick identification, early diagnosis, and speedy treatment.
1 in 13 babies that develop a GBS infection will die from late-onset GBS infection.
Typical signs of Late-onset GBS infection are similar to those of Early-onset GBS infection but may include signs associated with meningitis and can also include:
On average in the UK, one newborn baby a fortnight dies from a Strep B infection.
Make sure that everyone close to you and your baby know about GBS and the signs of infection
Contact your healthcare team QUICKLY if you notice any signs and are concerned about your baby. Make sure you mention GBS particularly if you know you are a GBS carrier.