[Group B streptococcus, primary cause of life-threatening infections in infants. Epidemiology and prevention strategy].

As soon as the early 70's, group B streptococci (GBS) became clearly predominant in neonatal infections. There was a dramatic increase in the incidence of GBS neonatal sepsis and meningitis throughout developed countries and GBS emerged as the leading cause of severe neonatal infections. Most of these infections, associated with high mortality and morbidity, could be prevented by intrapartum chemoprophylaxis given to risk mothers. AAP, ACOG and the CDC issued guidelines for their prevention. Today, in Belgium, there are still no recommendations for the prevention of GBS early-onset infections.