Asymptomatic Group B Streptococcal infection, Antibiotic Sensitivity, Risk Factors and Pregnancy Outcome among Pregnant Women at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria

Background

Streptococcus agalactiae or group B streptococcus (GBS), although a normal commensal, it is a leading cause of both maternal and neonatal sepsis.

Objectives

The study assessed the prevalence and sensitivity pattern of Group B Streptococcus, as well as the risk factors for infection and pregnancy outcome among pregnant women at the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria.

Methods

A prospective study among 152 pregnant women at the antenatal care clinic of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, selected by simple random sampling technique and relevant information was obtained using semi structured interviewer questionnaire. Swab samples were collected from the vagina and rectum for culture and further evaluation. The data was managed using SPSS software version 26 and the variables were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and P- value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Result

The prevalence of Group B Streptococcal infection among respondents was 4.6%. The mean age was 26.97± 5.6 with a range of 16 to 39 years. The organism was 100 % sensitive to Levofloxacin, Gentamycin and Clindamycin, but 57.1 %, 28.6 % and 14.3 % sensitive to Erythromycin, Augmentin and Penicillin respectively. The spousal educational status was statistically associated with GBS infection at a P- Value 0.04. There was 1(0.7%) each of spontaneous miscarriage and a preterm birth at 36 weeks’ gestation.

Conclusion

Group B Streptococcal infection is relatively common in our environment, with a contrary susceptibility pattern. It is association with spousal educational status.