The cost of claims for early-onset Group B Streptococcal disease in neonates reached £1.4 million between 2016 and 2023.
NHS Resolution has published a new report examining clinical negligence claims related to early-onset Group B Streptococcal (GBS) disease in neonates.
The analysis reviewed 19 closed claims notified between January 2016 and March 2023, of which 11 were settled with damages paid. The total cost of these closed claims was £1.4 million, including claimant legal costs, NHS legal costs and damages.
GBS is the leading cause of serious bacterial infection in newborns during the first few weeks of life. The report identifies key themes from the claims data, including the importance of effective communication of test results and timely administration of antibiotics and early recognition of sepsis.
It found that more than three-quarters (76%) of babies showed symptoms within the first 24 hours of birth, only a quarter of babies received antibiotics within one hour of sepsis being suspected; and it found that claims often relate to the management of GBS test results rather than the decision to test.
The report makes practical recommendations for maternity and neonatal services, including improved triage systems, robust processes for tracking and communicating test results, and enhanced staff training in recognising signs of sepsis.
The findings were developed with input from clinical experts and align with existing national guidance, including recommendations from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the Health Services Safety Investigations Body, and NHS England’s perinatal safety initiatives.
