Infection caused by Pneumococcus

The pneumococcus, also known as Streptococcus pneumoniae, is a widely distributed bacterium that can cause a number of serious diseases. It is commonly associated with typical bacterial pneumonia, purulent meningitis, as well as sinusitis and otitis media. The bacterium can be particularly dangerous for young children and older adults, who are at the highest risk of complications.

The pneumococcus is present in most healthy individuals, often without symptoms. The bacterium primarily resides in the mucous membranes of the pharynx and nasal cavity. Carriage is especially common among young children, as they can easily transmit the pathogen to one another. The frequency of carriage gradually decreases into adulthood, but it can still be detected in 5-10% of the population. If the protective function of the mucous membranes decreases, the bacterium can easily cause illness in the host.

What diseases can pneumococcus cause?

Pneumococcus can cause various local and invasive infections. In cases of local infections, the bacterium is a common pathogen for otitis media, sinusitis, and pneumonia, which can also be triggered by other bacteria, but the role of pneumococcus is prominent. These local infections can occur multiple times in a patient and are often difficult to treat.

In cases of invasive pneumococcal infections, the bacterium can easily enter the bloodstream, leading to severe, life-threatening conditions such as bacteremia or meningitis. Different serotypes of pneumococcus can cause invasive diseases to varying degrees, and these complications can develop extremely quickly. In such cases, there is often no time to initiate appropriate treatment, making immediate medical intervention crucial.

How dangerous is pneumococcal infection?

Pneumococcal infection poses a serious public health problem, as most carriers of the bacterium do not develop disease; however, the risk is significant for moderate to severe illnesses. Particularly vulnerable are children under 5 years of age, seniors over 65, and those with weakened immune systems.

In young children, the pathogen is especially dangerous because their immune systems are immature, making them more susceptible to complications such as pneumonia or meningitis. Older adults are also at greater risk, as they often contract the bacterium from asymptomatic young children, which can lead to pneumonia or sepsis. According to health authorities, pneumococcal infection leads to thousands of deaths annually among individuals with weakened immunity.

Warning signs and medical intervention

In cases of invasive pneumococcal infection, it is important for patients to seek immediate medical help if any of the following symptoms occur: sudden high fever (above 39°C), altered consciousness, rapid pulse, breathing difficulties, severe headache, or skin hemorrhages. These signs may indicate that the infection is worsening and urgent medical intervention is needed.

The basis of treating pneumococcal infection is the use of antibiotics, which are available in various forms (tablets, injections, infusions) depending on the type of disease. Challenges related to treatment include bacterial resistance, which leaves doctors with an increasingly limited selection. Due to the development of resistance to antibiotics, unnecessary antibiotic use should be avoided, as it contributes to the emergence of resistant strains.

The importance of the pneumococcal vaccine

The pneumococcal vaccine is the only effective way to reduce the occurrence of the pathogen and prevent severe invasive infections. There are two main types of vaccines available: the polysaccharide vaccine and the conjugate vaccine.

The polysaccharide vaccine is the cheaper, simpler version that contains antigens from the most common and dangerous strains. In contrast, the conjugate vaccine, which links the bacterial capsule to a protein, elicits a significantly stronger immune response and provides longer-lasting protection, particularly for children aged 2-5 years.

Vaccinations recommended for adults include the pneumococcal vaccine, especially for those over 50, chronic patients, smokers, and immunocompromised individuals. The vaccine can help prevent severe complications that may arise from pneumococcal infections. Vaccination is not recommended during fever, but can be requested once the fever has subsided.

Pneumococcal infection can pose a serious risk, making it important to maintain proper awareness and adhere to preventive measures. Vaccination plays a key role in protecting public health and contributes to maintaining the health of the population.