What problems can group B strep cause?
In healthy adults, group B strep doesn’t usually cause any problems. Certain groups are more likely to have complications from group B strep:
- Infants who have group B strep can develop an infection of the lungs (called pneumonia), bloodstream (called sepsis), or the fluid around the brain and spinal cord (called meningitis).
- Some pregnant women who have group B strep may develop an infection of the urinary tract (also called a UTI), placenta, amniotic fluid, or bloodstream.
- Older adults and people who have a chronic illness or a weak immune system are more likely to develop problems due to group B strep infection. These problems may include infections of the skin, bloodstream, urinary tract, lungs, bones and joints, heart valve (called endocarditis), or the fluid around the brain and spinal cord.
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff