infections
Pneumococcal Infections
Introduction
Pneumococcal infections are caused by the Overview of Gram-Positive Bacteria , sphere-shaped (coccal) bacteria (see figure Pneumococcal bacteria are dispersed in the air when infected people cough or sneeze. Pneumococcal infections usually cause fever and a general feeling of illness, with other symptoms depending on which part of the body is infected. Diagnosis may be based on symptoms or identification of the bacteria in samples of infected material. Penicillin or another antibiotic is usually effective treatment. Young children are routinely vaccinated against these infections, and vaccination is also recommended for all people 65 years of age and older and all people at high risk. (See also Overview of Bacteria .) There are more than 90 types of pneumococci. However, most serious infections are caused by only a few types. Pneumococci commonly reside in the upper respiratory tract of healthy people, their natural host, particularly during the winter and early spring. The bacteria spread to other people when they do the following: Inhale infected droplets dispersed by sneezing or coughing Come in close contact with an infected person Spread is more likely among people in crowded settings, such as people who live, stay, or work in nursing homes or long-term care facilities, hospital wards, prisons, military bases, universities or schools, shelters for the homeless, or day care centers. 