Rapid detection of Group B streptococcus directly from vaginal-rectal specimens using liquid swabs and the BD Max GBS assay

The BD Max GBS assay is highly sensitive, requires minimal technical skill with <2 min required to set-up, and results are available in under 80 min (versus 24-48 h for culture). It is configured for 'on demand' testing and vaginal-rectal specimens can be rapidly screened for GBS without the need for enrichment. The results obtained in this study demonstrate that rapid GBS screening using the BD Max GBS assay at the time of delivery is a viable alternative to the current recommended screening at 35-37 weeks of gestation with pre-enrichment testing methods.