INTRAPARTUM TRANSMISSION OF GROUP-A STREPTOCOCCUS

Intrapartum transmission of group A streptococcus has not been well do cumented. As the incidence of severe infections due to this organism h as recently increased, it is important to assess if such transmission occurs. We observed two cases of severe neonatal infections due to gro up A streptococcus, one of which was fatal, that appeared to have been transmitted from the mother during birth. Perinatal prophylaxis, whic h has been recommended for infections due to group B streptococcus, sh ould be evaluated for infections due to group A streptococcus.