Strep B Test

A strep B test is usually performed on pregnant woment to ensure that they’re not carriers of the Group B streptococcal bacteria.

The group B bacteria is a harmless agent in healthy adults. However, it can be deadly in newborn children. Mothers who are infected with this bacteria can easily pass it on to their babies during delivery. Due to this complication, all pregnant women without exception get a strep B test done around their 35th week of pregnancy. In adults with a compromised immune system, the Group B streptococcus can cause serious infections of the urinary tract and skin. A strep B test is performed on the blood, or the spinal fluid.

Regular strep tests are not effective in identifying this pathogen.

The Group B streptococcus bacteria is a growing cause of deadly infections. It’s influence has specially been felt among those who are aged and are therefore at least partially immunocompromized. Once it enters the bloodstream, it can easily be fatal.

A strep B test is an easy way to protect oneself and one’s newborn children by ensuring that the baby isn’t infected at birth, leading to what is called an early-onset infection. A late onset infection is also possible, which is less serious however. It is estimated that around 30% of pregnant women are colonized with the Group B streptococcus.