The best way to prevent Group B Streptococcus (GBS) disease in newborns during their first week of life is through a combination of screening and antibiotic administration.
Here's a breakdown of the preventative measures:
- GBS Screening: All pregnant women should be screened for GBS bacteria.
- Intrapartum Antibiotic Prophylaxis (IAP): Women identified as being at increased risk of transmitting GBS to their baby during labor should receive antibiotics during labor. According to the provided reference, "The best way to prevent GBS disease during the first week of life is to give antibiotics, during labor, to women at increased risk."
In summary, the most effective strategy involves universal screening of pregnant women for GBS and administering antibiotics during labor to those at increased risk of transmitting the bacteria to their newborn.
