Office of Communicable Diseases

Group B Streptococcal Disease (invasive)

Group B streptococcus (GBS) is a type of bacterium that causes illness in newborn babies, pregnant women, the elderly, and adults with other illnesses such as diabetes or liver disease. GBS is the most common cause of life-threatening infections in newborns.

For more information on the disease and its prevention, click here (forwarded to CDC web site).

What are the Group B Strep rates in Rhode Island?

Who can I contact at the Department of Health about Group B Strep?

Communicable Disease staff can answer questions about Group B Strep. To speak to a representative, call (401) 222-2577.