Genomic Analysis of Group B Carriage Isolates From Botswana Reveals Distinct Local Epidemiology and Identifies Novel Strains.

In pregnant people colonized with group B (GBS) in Botswana, we report the presence/expansion of sequence types 223 and 109, a low rate of erythromycin resistance, and 3 novel sequence types. These data highlight the importance of local epidemiologic studies of GBS, a significant source of neonatal disease.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Microalbuminuria in Pediatric Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus at a Large Tertiary-Level Hospital in Botswana.

Introduction: Microalbuminuria is considered the earliest sign of diabetic nephropathy among patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). The prevalence of microalbuminuria among African children with T1DM is reported to be high, yet its prevalence and population-specific risk factors in Botswana are not known.

Aim: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of microalbuminuria among children and young adults with T1DM in Botswana and identify factors associated with microalbuminuria in this population.

High Rate of Serotype V Carriage in Pregnant Women in Botswana.

Maternal rectovaginal colonization is the major risk factor for early-onset neonatal sepsis due to Group B (GBS), a major cause of early life morbidity and mortality. Transmission generally occurs perinatally from colonized mothers to infants. Vaccines targeting a subset of GBS serotypes are under development, but GBS epidemiology remains poorly understood in many African nations.