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Invasive pneumococcal disease in Greenland
J Christiansen1, P Paulsen, K Ladefoged
1Medical Department, Dronning Ingrids Hospital, Nuuk, Greenland. jacobnuuk@yahoo.com
International Journal of Circumpolar Health
|March 15, 2005
Summary
Invasive pneumococcal disease is highly prevalent in Greenland, particularly among the Inuit population. Serotype 12F was associated with a higher mortality rate, while serotype 1 showed no fatalities.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Pneumococcal infections pose a significant public health challenge globally.
- Understanding regional variations in incidence and serotype distribution is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and outcomes of pneumococcal infections in Greenland.
- To identify the predominant Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes and their impact on disease severity.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study was conducted on invasive pneumococcal infections in Greenland from 1996 to 2002.
- Cases were identified through positive cultures of Streptococcus pneumoniae from blood and/or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
- Serotyping was performed, and patient medical records were reviewed to assess outcomes.
Main Results:
- Fifty-one cases of invasive pneumococcal disease were identified.
- The incidence was significantly higher among the Inuit (54 per 100,000) compared to non-Inuit (17 per 100,000).
- Serotypes 1 and 12F were most common; serotype 12F was linked to higher mortality, while serotype 1 was not associated with any deaths.
Conclusions:
- Invasive pneumococcal disease, including meningitis, is highly prevalent among the Inuit in Greenland, similar to Canada and Alaska.
- Young and middle-aged adults (35-64 years) were the most affected age groups.
- Pneumococcal serotype is a critical factor influencing the outcome of invasive pneumococcal disease.