July is Group B Strep Awareness Month, an annual campaign to highlight the importance of group B Strep awareness, education and research.

Group B strep is a type of bacteria called streptococcal bacteria.

It's very common in both men and women and usually lives in the bottom (rectum) or vagina.

It affects two to four women in ten.

Group B strep is normally harmless and most people will not realise they have it.

Tragically, many families first hear about group B Strep after their baby is seriously ill with GBS meningitis, sepsis or pneumonia.

It is mostly an issue for pregnant woman when it could spread to the baby making them very ill and to elderly people or those who are already as it can cause repeated or serious infections.

Rachel Fulton, Midwifery Matron at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, said: "If identified in the antenatal period, women can be treated for Group B Strep when they are in labour, particularly if they have previously had an affected baby.

"These women will be treated with antibiotics when their waters go or when they are in established labour.

"US based studies have shown that intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP) given to women with risk factors for GBS infection is effective in preventing neonatal disease, although there is currently insufficient evidence to recommend routine screening for all pregnant women."

Group B strep is common in pregnant women and rarely causes any problems.

It's not routinely tested for, but may be found during tests carried out for another reason, such as a urine test or vaginal swab.

Rachel said: "If you're worried about group B strep, speak to your midwife or GP for advice.

Talk to them about the risks to your baby and ask their advice about whether to get tested.

Routine testing is not currently recommended and tests are rarely done on the NHS, but you can pay for one privately."

Occasionally, symptoms of a strep infection can develop up to 3 months after birth.