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Geographic, demographic, and seasonal differences in penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae in Baltimore
Bernadette A Albanese1, Jeffrey C Roche, Margaret Pass
1Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Hygiene and Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Abstract:
We examined the epidemiology of invasive penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae (PRSP) infections among residents of the Baltimore metropolitan area from 1995 through 1997. During this period, the proportion PRSP cases increased 42%, from 5.7% to 8.1% of cases. PRSP rates were highest among persons aged <5 and > or =65 years, black patients, and urban dwellers. However, the proportion of PRSP cases was higher among white persons (10%) than it was among black persons (5%) and among residents of suburban counties (10%) versus urban counties (6%). PRSP cases were more common in November-April (8%) than they were in May-October (5%), particularly for persons aged > or =65 years (10% vs. 1%). By use of logistic regression, white race, suburban residence, and winter respiratory season were found to be independent predictors of infection with PRSP. The incidence of PRSP is increasing in Baltimore, and the seasonality of PRSP suggests that recent antibiotic use, which is more common in winter months, may rapidly affect the prevalence of resistant pneumococcal infections.
Insights
Penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae (PRSP) infections increased in Baltimore from 1995-1997. Risk factors included younger/older age groups, white race, suburban residence, and winter months, suggesting antibiotic use influences prevalence.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Invasive penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae (PRSP) infections pose a growing public health concern.
- Understanding the epidemiological trends and risk factors for PRSP is crucial for effective control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the epidemiology of invasive PRSP infections in the Baltimore metropolitan area between 1995 and 1997.
- To identify demographic and seasonal factors associated with PRSP infection.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of PRSP cases in Baltimore residents from 1995-1997.
- Logistic regression analysis to identify independent predictors of PRSP infection.
Main Results:
- The proportion of PRSP cases increased by 42% (5.7% to 8.1%) during the study period.
- PRSP rates were highest in persons <5 and > or =65 years, black patients, and urban dwellers.
- White race, suburban residence, and winter respiratory season were independent predictors of PRSP infection.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of PRSP is increasing in Baltimore.
- Seasonality suggests that recent antibiotic use, more common in winter, may influence the prevalence of resistant pneumococcal infections.
- Targeted interventions may be needed for high-risk populations and during specific seasons.