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Bacterial meningitis after intrapartum spinal anesthesia - New York and Ohio, 2008-2009

    MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report
    |January 30, 2010
    PubMed

    Insights

    Surgical masks are recommended for spinal procedures to prevent serious infections like Streptococcus salivarius meningitis. Adhering to infection control, including mask use and aseptic technique, is crucial for patient safety.

    Area of Science:

    • Infectious Diseases
    • Public Health
    • Anesthesiology

    Background:

    • Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC) first recommended surgical masks for spinal procedures in 2007.
    • This recommendation followed reports of meningitis after myelography.

    Observation:

    • Five cases of bacterial meningitis in postpartum women receiving intrapartum spinal anesthesia were reported between 2008 and 2009.
    • Four cases were confirmed as Streptococcus salivarius meningitis, with one fatality.

    Findings:

    • Investigations linked New York cases to one anesthesiologist and Ohio cases to another.
    • The anesthesiologist in the Ohio cases did not wear a mask, suggesting a potential transmission route.

    Implications:

    • Findings highlight the critical importance of adhering to infection-control recommendations during spinal procedures.
    • Mask use and aseptic technique are essential to prevent healthcare-associated meningitis and ensure patient safety.

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