Streptococcus Pneumoniae
What is Streptococcus Pneumoniae?
Streptococcus pneumoniae (also known as pneumococcus) is a type of bacteria that commonly causes infections in the lungs, ear, sinuses, and blood. It is one of the most common causes of pneumonia, an infection of the lungs which can be life-threatening, as well as many other illnesses such as bacteremia, meningitis, ear infection, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Pneumococcal disease can occur in children and adults, but is more common in children and the elderly.
Symptoms of Streptococcus Pneumoniae
Most often, pneumococcal infections cause chest pain, sputum production, shortness of breath, fever, and a cough that may be productive of mucus or pus. In more severe cases, people may experience seizures, confusion, or a rapid heartbeat. In the elderly, when the infection is more severe, it can lead to confusion or a decreased level of consciousness.
Diagnosis of Streptococcus Pneumoniae
The diagnosis of pneumococcal infection is based on a combination of clinical signs and symptoms, chest X-ray findings, and culture results. Cultures of sputum, blood, or other body fluids may be used to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection and to determine the susceptibility of the bacteria to antibiotics.
Treatment of Streptococcus Pneumoniae
Treatment of pneumococcal infection typically involves antibiotics, such as penicillin or macrolide. These drugs act by killing the bacteria that cause the infection. In more severe cases, intravenous antibiotics may be required. In addition, supportive care such as supplemental oxygen and intravenous fluids may be needed. Vaccination with the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine is recommended for all children younger than five years of age, as well as any adults over the age of 65 or those with weakened immune systems.
Complications of Streptococcus Pneumoniae
Complications of pneumococcal infections can be serious and even life-threatening. Complications may include lung abscesses, brain abscesses, meningitis, and septic shock. If left untreated, pneumococcal infections can result in death.
Prevention of Streptococcus Pneumoniae
The best way to prevent pneumococcal infections is to get vaccinated with the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine. This vaccine is available for children younger than 5 years of age and for adults 65 or older, as well as those with weakened immune systems. Additionally, other measures can help prevent the spread of the disease, such as washing your hands regularly, covering your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze, avoiding close contact with people who have an infection, and avoiding sharing drinks or food with other people.
Tips to Protect against Streptococcus Pneumoniae infection
- Get vaccinated if you are eligible
- Wash your hands regularly
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze
- Avoid close contact with people who have an infection
- Avoid sharing drinks or food with other people