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Streptococcus pneumoniae: Q&A
Q
If Streptococcus pneumoniae is something that we all normally have in our bodies, why does it cause disease?
A
Streptococcus pneumoniae causes infections by invading the body when the immune system is weak or the body's physical strength is low, such as after a viral infection.
Q
Is there an age at which people should be extra careful about Streptococcus pneumoniae infections?
A
Children and the elderly, who have weak immune systems. Vaccinations are recommended for people in these age groups.
Q
Does the Streptococcus pneumoniae vaccination prevent all Streptococcus pneumoniae infections?
A
Although it does not prevent all infections, vaccination can be expected to have preventive effects against infections such as bacterial meningitis and bacteraemia caused by the serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae included in the vaccine.
Q
How does treatment change if Streptococcus pneumoniae is identified as the cause of an illness?
A
An antibiotic that is more effective against Streptococcus pneumoniae can be used; this helps in estimating the prognosis, since Streptococcus pneumoniae is considered to have relatively high virulence.
Q&A about Infections
- Influenza virus: Q&A
- Norovirus: Q&A
- Streptococcus pneumoniae: Q&A
- Group A hemolytic streptococcus: Q&A