MBRRACE-UK today published their Perinatal Mortality Surveillance Report for Births in 2016. Our Chief Executive, Jane Plumb MBE said:
“It’s fabulous to see the stillbirth rate in twins has almost halved since 2014, and that there’s been a small reduction overall in neonatal deaths. This reflects improved maternal and neonatal care, and the impact of the many organisations including charities working to affect change in this area.
“However, it’s shocking that, in the same period that there’s been a slight fall in neonatal deaths (2013-16), the number of group B Strep infections in babies in their first week of life reported in England, Wales & Northern Ireland have increased by over 20%. These are voluntarily reported cases, so the actual number will be higher.
“More focus needs to be given to ensuring that parents and their health professionals know how most group B Strep infections in newborn babies can be prevented, and in identifying the key signs of these infections in babies in in their first three months of life, so that these very sick babies get treatment as early as possible.
“We have worked with the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists to produce an information leaflet which the RCOG recommends is provided to all pregnant women – copies are free to the NHS from Group B Strep Support.
“If you’re pregnant, make sure you get yours – ask your midwife, download/view here or order here.”
