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Epidemiology of Streptococcus pneumoniae infection in Malaysia

M Y Rohani1, A Raudzah, A J Ng

  • 1Bacteriology Division, Institute for Medical Research, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Epidemiology and Infection
|March 31, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes causing invasive infections in Malaysia are similar globally. The 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine covers most common serotypes, suggesting its potential utility in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Vaccinology

Background:

  • Streptococcus pneumoniae is a leading cause of bacterial infections worldwide.
  • Understanding prevalent serotypes and antimicrobial resistance is crucial for effective disease prevention and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates from clinical specimens in Malaysia.
  • To identify common serotypes, particularly those causing invasive infections.
  • To assess antimicrobial resistance patterns and the potential role of the 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 273 Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates collected over one year (October 1995-September 1996).
  • Serotyping of isolates.
  • Antimicrobial susceptibility testing for penicillin and erythromycin.

Main Results:

  • S. pneumoniae was isolated from sputum, blood, CSF, and other body fluids.
  • Children aged 10 and below, especially those 2 and below, accounted for a significant proportion of infections.
  • Serotypes 1, 6B, 19B, 19F, and 23F were most common; serotypes 1 and 19B were linked to invasive infections.
  • 71.9% of invasive infections involved serotypes covered by the 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine.
  • Penicillin and erythromycin resistance rates were 7.0% and 1.1%, respectively.

Conclusions:

  • The prevalent S. pneumoniae serotypes in Malaysia align with global patterns.
  • The 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine may offer protection against a majority of invasive S. pneumoniae infections in Malaysia.
  • Continued surveillance of serotypes and resistance is warranted.

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