Neonatal group B b-haemolytic streptococcal infection in Kuala Lumpur.

First six cases of neonatal group B B haemolytic streptococcal sepsis in GHKL & Maternity Hospital K.L. were reported and in one third, it was fatal. Five of the cases were 'early onset' type and one was 'late onset' type. While maternal infant transmission of the disease is important in the 'early onset' type, environmental sources of infection are also significant. No gestational age or birthweight is spared from the disease. Finally, there are cases of 'early onset' GBS sepsis presenting like hyaline membrane disease of the newborn and it is important to find ways to distinguish them which so far has not been satisfactory.