Duffy calls for Group B Strep screening in North

SINN Féin Health spokesperson Councillor Sandra Duffy has called for screening for Group B Streptococcus to be available for all pregnant women in the North at an appropriate stage during their pregnancy.

She said: “The Group B Streptococcus virus can cause serious illness or death in newborn babies but it is preventable.

“There is a test available to prevent this virus being passed to babies and it saves lives.

“A pilot testing scheme is being rolled out in England, Wales and Scotland at present.

“The Department of Health should ensure that testing is available to all pregnant women in the north at an appropriate stage during their pregnancy.

“Unfortunately we have had deaths because of Group Strep B in the North and a coroner has warned that there could be more so it is important this screening is available to all pregnant women in order to save lives,” added Cllr Duffy.

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