The first, early onset form of septicaemia, which produces shock and difficulty in breathing. This form starts soon after birth within the first hours or days of life. It occurs in the first two months, usually after the baby has gone home from the hospital. Although it can be fatal, Group B streptococcal disease can be treated very effectively with antibiotics. Because young babies are so vulnerable, treatment is normally started as soon as infection is suspected.
Recovery is usually complete, with no long-term complications.
Recent research has focused on understanding why some babies develop the disease and not others, despite the fact that many exposed to the bacteria at a young and vulnerable age. The infection is not often spread to other babies, and there is no risk to older children in the family or adults. There is a significant difference between the two forms in how the infection is acquired. The strains of Group B streptococcus found in babies with early onset disease are also found quite normally in the mother's vagina. In these cases, the baby becomes infected before or during labour or when passing down the birth canal.