Prevalence of group B streptococci in parturient mothers and their infants.

Eighty pregnant women and their newborn infants were studied for the presence of group B Beta hemolytic streptococci (G.B.S.). G.B.S. were recovered from endocervical cultures in 5 (6.5%) women and 2 (2.5%) had positive throat cultures. Six (7.5%) infants had umbilical and external ear cultures positive for G.B.S. Four infants presented with clinical signs of respiratory distress. All infected infants were treated with penicillin and gentamycin. One case developed fulminant sepsis and died in spite of early diagnosis and treatment. This study shows a high incidence of G.B.S. infection and sepsis with a high mortality rate.