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Persistence of Diplococcus pneumoniae after influenza virus infection in Macaca mulatta
Abstract:
Exposure of monkeys to aerosols of influenza virus followed later by aerosols of Diplococcus pneumoniae resulted in persistence of the bacteria in the upper respiratory tract for an average of 28 days. Examination of selected tissues for pneumococci revealed that pneumococci were widely disseminated throughout the respiratory tract at 3 and 7 days after exposure, but were cleared from lower respiratory tissues and were found mainly in tonsils, oropharynx, and posterior nasopharynx after 14 days.
Insights
Influenza virus infection prolonged the persistence of Diplococcus pneumoniae in monkeys' upper respiratory tracts for up to 28 days. Pneumococci spread widely initially but were later confined to specific upper respiratory areas.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Virology
Background:
- Influenza virus infections can predispose individuals to secondary bacterial pneumonia.
- Understanding the dynamics of bacterial coinfections is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the persistence and dissemination of Diplococcus pneumoniae following influenza virus exposure in a primate model.
- To determine the impact of prior influenza infection on pneumococcal colonization.
Main Methods:
- Monkeys were exposed to influenza virus aerosols, followed by Diplococcus pneumoniae aerosols.
- Bacterial presence was assessed in various respiratory tissues at different time points post-exposure.
Main Results:
- Diplococcus pneumoniae persisted in the upper respiratory tract for an average of 28 days.
- Pneumococci were initially widespread throughout the respiratory tract at 3 and 7 days.
- After 14 days, bacteria were cleared from lower respiratory tissues, remaining primarily in the tonsils, oropharynx, and posterior nasopharynx.
Conclusions:
- Influenza virus infection significantly extends the duration of Diplococcus pneumoniae colonization in the upper respiratory tract.
- The study highlights the prolonged shedding of pneumococci in specific upper airway sites after coinfection.