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Following in Real Time the Impact of Pneumococcal Virulence Factors in an Acute Mouse Pneumonia Model Using Bioluminescent Bacteria
Published on: February 23, 2014
[Pneumococcal sepsis 2015-2022: considerations on vaccination strategies]
Herbert Hof1, Sabine Singer1, Ika Steiner1
1MVZ Labor Limbach u. Kollegen, Heidelberg, Deutschland.
Despite available vaccines, Streptococcus pneumoniae sepsis remains a concern, particularly in older adults. A significant portion of detected serotypes were not covered by current vaccines, highlighting a gap in protection.
Area of Science:
- Clinical microbiology
- Infectious diseases
- Vaccinology
Context:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae remains a leading cause of sepsis, despite widespread vaccination efforts.
- Data from 2015-2022 shows 925 positive blood cultures for S. pneumoniae, predominantly in patients over 60.
- A decrease in positive cultures in 2020-2021 may correlate with non-pharmaceutical interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Purpose:
- To analyze the frequency and characteristics of S. pneumoniae bloodstream infections.
- To determine the serotype distribution and antibiotic susceptibility of isolated strains.
- To assess the vaccine coverage of identified S. pneumoniae serotypes.
Summary:
- Over 925 S. pneumoniae blood isolates were analyzed from 2015-2022, with serotypes 3 and 8 being most common.
- Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed widespread susceptibility to penicillin, erythromycin, and doxycycline; no multi-drug resistant strains were found.
- Current vaccines cover 67-75% of detected serotypes, leaving 27% unprotected.
Impact:
- Highlights the continued public health burden of pneumococcal sepsis.
- Identifies specific prevalent serotypes not covered by existing vaccines, informing vaccine development.
- Suggests potential for improved vaccination strategies to reduce sepsis incidence.
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