Epidemiology of Group B Streptococcus in developing countries

Abstract

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) causes pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis in neonates. The current distribution pattern of GBS serotypes in developing countries such as India, China and Brazil is not clear. In order to appropriately plan for vaccination programs to address the burden of this disease in these countries, prospective population based studies are urgently needed. In our discussions, we focused on India, China and Brazil because of the membership of our workgroup, but data on other countries are also presented here. Further studies in developing countries are needed so as to better formulate appropriate public health interventions.

Keywords: Group B Streptococcus; Maternal immunization; Neonatal.