Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is usually acquired through normal bacterial colonization, not by deliberate exposure
GBS commonly lives in the intestines, rectum, and vagina without causing symptoms
It can be passed from a pregnant person to a baby during childbirth
It can spread through direct contact with contaminated bodily fluids
It can be acquired from one’s own normal bacterial flora when bacteria move to another body site
Risk is higher in newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems
It is not typically spread through casual contact like hugging or sharing utensils