Streptococcus pneumoniae: Infections, Symptoms & Causes

Streptococcus pneumoniae

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a Gram-positive bacterium that is commonly found in the respiratory tract of healthy people. However, it can also cause a variety of infections, including:

* Boils: S. pneumoniae can cause boils, which are painful, pus-filled skin infections.

* Meningitis: S. pneumoniae can cause meningitis, a serious infection of the fluid and membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord.

* Pneumonia: S. pneumoniae is the most common cause of community-acquired pneumonia, a type of lung infection.

* Septicemia: S. pneumoniae can also cause septicemia, a bloodstream infection.

S. pneumoniae is spread through contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person. It can be prevented by vaccination.