Written question asked by Mark Oaten (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 27 January 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 4 February 2004. It was answered by Stephen Ladyman (Labour) on Wednesday, 4 February 2004 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what measures he is taking to implement the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Green Top Guidelines on Group B streptococcus.

Answer: Mr. Oaten: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what measures he is taking to implement the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Green Top Guidelines on Group B streptococcus. [151946] Dr. Ladyman: The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists' guidelines on the Prevention of Early Onset Neonatal Group B Streptococcus Disease have been circulated to all fellows and members of the College. Ministers have asked the UK National Screening Committee (NSC) to undertake further work to assess the existing evidence on screening and treatment for Group B Streptococcus in pregnancy in the UK. A recent workshop agreed a number of actions to reduce the risk of GBS infection, including ensuring better information for professionals and pregnant women, more consistent and appropriate advice and treatment for women at increased risk, and further research. The NSC will take forward a programme of work in the light of this report during 2004.

Secondary information