Group B streptococci colonization among Saudi women in labor and neonatal acquisition.

Rates of high vaginal Group B Streptococcus colonization and the perinatal transmission were determined in 260 Saudi women admitted for delivery to the Obstetrical Unit of the King Fahd Hospital of the University, Al-Khobar. Of these women, 24 mothers in labour had vaginal colonization (9.2%). Three neonates acquired Group B Streptococci soon after birth on more than one body site and the perinatal transmission rate was 12.5%. Implication of these findings are reviewed.