Streptococcal Infections

Streptococcus, or strep for short, is a type of bacteria. There are two types of streptococcal infections: group A and group B.

Group A strep infections can range from a mild skin infection or a sore throat to severe, life-threatening conditions.
Group B strep can cause blood infections, pneumonia, and meningitis in newborns, though adults can also get it. A screening test during pregnancy can tell if the mother has it and is at risk of passing to her baby.

Group B Strep Infections and Pregnancy

Group B streptococcus (GBS) is a type of bacteria that is harmless most of the time. However, it can be passed from a mother to a newborn during birth and can cause problems for the baby. Some women are at higher risk to pass GBS to their baby. Talk with your health care provider about prenatal testing and your risk for other infections during pregnancy.

Help Kids Stay Cool

When kids are active during the summer months, they are more at risk for overheating. There are many ways to help kids avoid overheating during exercise. Drinking water is the best choice when exercising, especially when it's warm outside. Water and a healthy diet will give kids the energy they need to stay active all summer long.

Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infection or UTI is a common type of infection in the body. Anyone can get a UTI, but women are at greater risk. You're also at higher risk if you have diabetes, need a tube to drain your bladder, or have a spinal cord injury. If you think you have a UTI see your doctor. Your doctor can tell if you have a UTI with a urine test. Treatment is with antibiotics.

Folic Acid

Folic acid helps your body make healthy new cells. Everyone needs folic acid, but it's especially important for women who are pregnant because it can prevent major birth defects of her baby's brain or spine. You can get folic acid from: