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.