The most common cause of life-threatening infection in newborns is group B streptococcus (GBS), an infection that isn't routinely tested for in the UK.
An average of two babies develop a GBS infection every day in the UK, according to the charity Group B Strep Support (GBSS). While most recover, one baby dies as a result of the infection each week and one baby a week survives with life-changing disabilities.
Although most people won't experience any symptoms, it is so common that GBSS says up to 40 percent of women carry the bacteria in their rectum, vagina or intestines. Notably, the group B strep can affect babies around the time of birth.
