New research grants target the lifelong impacts of meningitis
The grants are open to researchers based in the UK, Ireland and low- and middle-income countries.
July is Group B Strep Awareness Week.
The annual campaign is led by Group B Strep Support, a UK charity which aims to eradicate Group B Strep infections in babies.
Throughout the week they bring people together to raise awareness and highlight the importance of education and research in this field.
What’s the connection between Group B Strep and meningitis?
Group B Strep, also known as GBS or Strep B, is a type of bacteria that lives naturally in our bodies and usually comes and goes without showing symptoms or causing any harm, unless it enters a part of the body that’s free from bacteria. If this type of bacteria infects the lining around the brain, it causes it to swell, resulting in meningitis.
Young babies are at greatest risk of meningitis caused by GBS as it can be passed from mother to baby before or during birth, or through contact with adults who handle the baby.
One in five pregnant women carry the bacteria in the gut or vagina. Most babies that come into contact with the bacteria are born healthy. But some do become very poorly.
Why is Group B Strep Awareness Week important?
GBS is a leading cause of meningitis and sepsis in newborn babies.
There were estimated to be over 160,000 cases and nearly 17,000 deaths from GBS meningitis worldwide in 2021.
As many as half of survivors of GBS meningitis can be left with lifelong impairments.
Many expectant parents may not know about the bacteria or the potential impact it could have on their baby.
Group B Strep Awareness Week aims to save lives by reaching as many new parents as possible, making them aware so they can speak to their healthcare professional about protecting their baby.
To find out more about who is at risk of GBS meningitis, how it can be prevented and the signs to look for, check out our GBS meningitis information page which has everything you need to know on this vital issue.
What can I do to support Group B Strep Awareness Week?
You can find out more about the work of Group B Strep Support and how you can get involved in the campaign by visiting their website.
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