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Background: Neonatal GBS disease

The Role of Mikvah Immersion in Group B Streptococcus Carrier Rate Amongst Orthodox Jewish Women


Jeanette Toney M.D.; Meghan Rattigan D.O.; Yen-Hong Kuo, PhD
Jersey Shore University Medical Center Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, June 5, 2018



Background: Neonatal GBS disease

Early onset GBS disease- presents within 7 days of birth
Sepsis(80-85%) , Pneumonia (10%), Meningitis (7%)
Mortality rates- Term= 2-3%, Preterm= 20%

Late onset GBS disease- between 7days and 3 months
Bacteremia, focal infection (septic arthritis, cellulitis), Meningitis (25-30%)
Mortality rates- Term= 1-2%, Preterm= 5-6%

Long term sequelae include deafness and developmental disabilities.