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Communicable Diseases Agency

Group B streptococcal infection

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) or Streptoccocus agalactiae is a bacterium that most healthy adults carry without any symptoms.

Last updated 3 March 2026

What is Group B Streptococcal Infection (GBS)?

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) or Streptoccocus agalactiae is a bacterium that most healthy adults carry without any symptoms. However, it can cause severe infections in vulnerable groups like newborns, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems.

How is GBS transmitted?

The most significant transmission route is from mother to child during pregnancy. When passing through the birth canal, babies may become exposed to GBS.

ST283 GBS has been associated with the consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater fish or improper handling of freshwater fish.

What are the symptoms of GBS? 

Symptoms for adults:

  • Early signs can include fever, chills, unusual tiredness, or confusion.

  • Most commonly affects skin, causing redness, swelling, or serious skin infections.

  • Can also lead to infections in the bladder, joints, bones, heart or brain.

Symptoms for newborn babies:

  • Can cause serious infections affecting the whole body.

  • May lead to lung or brain infections.

What are the risk factors?

These groups of people face higher risks of getting GBS infection:

  • Newborn babies whose mother has tested positive for GBS infection.

  • Those aged 65 years and older.

  • Individuals with underlying health conditions.

  • Individuals who consumed raw or undercooked aquatic products.

  • Individuals who handle freshwater fish and other aquatic products.

How is GBS treated?

GBS can be treated with antibiotics. Hospitalisation and a longer duration of antibiotics may be needed for infection with complications.

How to prevent GBS?

Preventing GBS infection prevention includes maintaining good personal, food and environmental hygiene.

If you are pregnant:

  • Test for GBS: The recommended period for testing is between 35 and 37 weeks of pregnancy.

  • Adhere to antibiotic treatment: Follow your doctor's advice on antibiotic treatment if you test positive.

  • Keep up to date with prenatal care: Attend all prenatal check-ups to monitor your health and your baby’s.

For everyone

  • Practise good hand hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.

  • Proper wound care: Clean and cover any cuts or wounds with clean bandages. Change them regularly and keep the area dry.

  • Ensure food safety: Follow proper food handling practices.

  • When handling aquatic products:

    • Wash your hands after handling aquatic products.

    • Avoid consuming raw or undercooked freshwater fish and other aquatic products.

    • Use caution and practise good hygiene when handling aquatic products to prevent wound infections. Seek medical advice promptly if any infection is suspected.