Spike in Pneumococcal Infections Tied to Influenza Pandemic

According to an article from the American Academy of Family Physicians, influenza isn't the only illness people need to be wary of this flu season. CMS is also reporting a nationwide spike in pneumococcal infections.

Anne Schuchat, the director of the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, noted that influenza infections can reduce the lining of the respiratory tract and set the stage for secondary pneumonia. When a viral infection, such as influenza, is present, common bacterias have an easier time invading the lungs.

In Denver, one of the CDC's active bacterial core surveillance sites, 58 cases of pneumococcal disease were reported during the month of October. For the past five years, the average has been 20 cases in October. Denver's results aren't thought to be atypical.

Schuchat noted that vaccination is the best way to protect against pneumococcal infections. With the vaccine becoming readily available, the CDC is encouraging physicians to offer it to anyone who requests it once the needs of their priority populations have been met.