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Abstract:
From 1968 to 1974 seven cases of septicaemia and purulent meningitis caused by porcine streptococci of the Lancefield group R and three cases caused by similar streptococci lacking R antigen occurred in the Netherlands. Bacteria isolated from all ten patients shared the characteristics of a biochemically well defined bacterial species (provisionally called Streptococcus subacidus) which until 1968 was only found in pigs. Nine of the ten patients had had intensive contact with live or slaughtered pigs.
Insights
Porcine streptococci, specifically Streptococcus subacidus, caused severe infections like septicaemia and meningitis in humans. Most patients had close contact with pigs, suggesting a zoonotic transmission route for these bacteria.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Zoonotic Infections
Background:
- Porcine streptococci, particularly Lancefield group R, have been identified as potential pathogens.
- Streptococcus subacidus was previously considered exclusively a pig pathogen until 1968.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate human infections caused by porcine streptococci.
- To characterize the bacterial species responsible for human septicaemia and meningitis.
- To explore the link between human cases and porcine contact.
Main Methods:
- Case series analysis of human infections.
- Bacteriological isolation and characterization of causative agents.
- Epidemiological investigation of patient histories and potential exposures.
Main Results:
- Ten cases of septicaemia and purulent meningitis were identified between 1968 and 1974.
- Infections were caused by Streptococcus subacidus, a species previously found only in pigs.
- Nine out of ten patients had significant contact with pigs.
Conclusions:
- Porcine streptococci, specifically Streptococcus subacidus, can cause severe human infections.
- Intensive contact with pigs is a likely source of zoonotic transmission.
- This highlights the potential for interspecies disease transmission.