Hi. My first grandchild born 6 years ago had strep b and we were lucky not to lose her. I have posted about this before.

[WorriedNanny]

Her new brother arrived 2 weeks ago after iv antibiotics were administered during labour as per RCGO protocols. To cut a long story short he has been admitted for IV antibiotics after e coil was isolated in his urine. One of the doctors said this could be because of the antibiotics my daughter had. I am finding conflicting info on the internet some saying it could well be the cause and others saying not. I was wondering if anyone at GBSS has more reliable info? Thanks.

[JaneEliz Group B Strep Support Volunteer]

Hi WorriedNanny - So sorry to hear of the problems both children have had. How dreadful. I'm so pleased that your grandson's mum was offered the intravenous antibiotics in labour with her son, as that is the correct protocol. She probably will have been given PenicillinG as that is also the antibiotic recommended by the RCOG. If she did, then I don't know of any research which links PenG in labour with an increase risk of e.coli infection.

In other countries there was a tendency some years ago to give broad-spectrum antibiotics in labour (such as amoxycillin) rather than the narrow spectrum PenG. Some research showed that, for preterm babies, there was a small increased risk of non-GBS infection in babies whose mothers had been given broad-spectrum antibiotics in labour (which is one of the reasons it's really good to use PenG for GBS prevention where possible). Maybe it's this that your daughter's doctor is thinking of?

Hope that help - do call us 01444 416176 or email us [e-mail]. We're always happy to help if we can.

And I hope your grandson's infection is treated quickly and that he's home with the family, fit and healthy, very soon.

[WorriedNanny]

Thanks for the response. Yes it was penG that Kristen had during labour. Oliver and his mum are back home now after being discharged this afternoon. The paediatricians were happy with his progress over the last couple of days and he can complete his five day course orally at home. He is putting some weight back on again now so we are all very relieved that things are seemingly OK. Fingers crossed all goes to plan now. Thanks for all your hard work.

[JaneEliz Group B Strep Support Volunteer]

Brilliant - delighted to hear Oliver is doing so well (great name - my first child's name too). Fabulous that it was picked up and treated so quickly