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Pasteurella multocida meningitis in infancy. An avoidable infection
Abstract:
Pasteurella multocida is a common commensal in the upper respiratory tracts of cats and dogs. Infection with P multocida in humans usually follows infected bite wounds; however, infection in humans unrelated to animal bites is rare. We describe two infants with P multocida meningitis in whom infection was probably related to nontraumatic facial licking by household pet dogs. Both patients recovered fully. Although the risk is low, parents should be informed that mucous membrane exposure to household pets may expose an infant to the risk of systemic P multocida infection.
Insights
Household dogs may transmit Pasteurella multocida to infants through non-bite related contact, such as facial licking. This can cause meningitis, though both infants in this study recovered fully.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Pasteurella multocida is a common bacterium found in the respiratory tracts of domestic animals like cats and dogs.
- Human infections typically occur after animal bites, but non-bite related transmission is less common.
Observation:
- Two infants developed Pasteurella multocida meningitis.
- Infection was likely acquired through non-traumatic facial licking by pet dogs, not through bites.
- Both infants experienced a full recovery from the infection.
Findings:
- This case series highlights a rare but potential transmission route of Pasteurella multocida from pets to infants.
- Nontraumatic oral or mucous membrane contact with infected animals can lead to severe systemic infections in infants.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in neonatal meningitis.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should consider animal contact, including non-bite related interactions, when diagnosing infections in infants.
- Parents should be educated about the potential risks of close contact between infants and household pets.
- Further research is needed to understand the prevalence and risk factors associated with non-bite transmitted Pasteurella multocida infections in infants.