The Long Term Effects On Children Of A Group B Streptococcus Injury
One common type of claim handled by a medical negligence attorney is the birth injury lawsuit. These generally fall into one of four major categories. First, there are those that involve a physical injury to the child. Second, there are those that involve birth defects. Genetic abnormalities are examples of this type of case. Following this there are those cases that involve a stillbirth. Finally, there are the cases that involve the death of the child shortly following birth .
Let’s explore a form of case that involve injuries. Very often the injuries are severe and can include loss of vision, loss of hearing, cognitive and physical limitations, and seizure disorders. These types of injuries often leave the child with permanent disabilities. Consider injuries from an infection. One class of of infection that is very dangerous for newborns is from a group b strep bacterial infection.
The immune system of a new born baby is not yet fully developed. Group b strep can develop into sepsis which is a condition in which the infection spreads throughout the baby’s body leading to serious organ damage and even organ failure. Pneumonia is another known complication of the infection. And it can also lead to meningitis which can leave the child with multiple permanent problems including cerebral palsy and seizure disorders. If a doctor does not screen the expectant mother for group b strep at the appropriate point in the pregnancy, fails to administer antibiotics while the mother is in labor if the mother tested positive or has a history of group b strep from a prior pregnancy or has any of the risk factors, or fails to monitor the newborn and administer antibiotics as necessary if they were not administered even though they were called for during labor or the newborn shows signs of infection that doctor may be liable.
The comments presented here are meant only for general informational purposes and is only a general overview of a type of matter handled by an attorney experienced in handling birth injury cases. It is not to be taken as as medical advice and it is not to be taken as legal advice. You should consult with a doctor for any medical related questions and consult with an attorney regarding any potential legal issues.
