Group B Strep Infections: Symptoms and Treatment
The immune system of newborns is not the same as in adults. It has not yet developed, leaving babies much more susceptible to bacteria and viruses that our adult bodies can usually fight off easily. One particular danger is Group B strep, or GBS. Babies can be exposed to this bacterium during birth, either due to improper screening and treatment of the mother or because of unsterilized equipment used during delivery. GBS is a dangerous infection, so it is important that parents actively observe their newborns for signs and symptoms of this disorder for the first weeks and months of life.
Signs of a GBS Infection
Babies cannot verbally inform you that they are not feeling well, so parents must be aware of their child’s behavior to determine if something is wrong. Some of the symptoms of GBS include:
- Abnormally high or low temperature
- Unusual fussiness
- Difficulty feeding
- Listlessness
- Difficulty breathing
Many of these symptoms are associated with other newborn infections as well, but they could indicate GBS.
GBS Treatment
GBS is a serious infection. Exact treatment depends on the particulars of the case at hand, but babies who are diagnosed with GBS usually need to be in the hospital to receive antibiotic treatments. It is not unusual for newborns with this disease to spend time in the NICU, or neonatal intensive care unit. It can be scary to have a baby in the NICU, but this is usually the best place for their symptoms to be closely monitored.
Contact Us
If your newborn had GBS, you undoubtedly suffered a great deal of worry and stress. You may have medical bills that are staggering, or have ongoing medical needs for your son or daughter. You may even be facing the unimaginable grief of having lost a child.
If the infection was caused by the error of a doctor or other healthcare worker, you may be entitled to financial compensation. The Philadelphia birth infections lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., are ready to assist you with your legal needs in this matter. Call us today at 215-238-1130.