How Does Streptococcus pneumoniae Affect Children?
Children are particularly vulnerable to Streptococcus pneumoniae due to their developing immune systems. The bacteria can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Once it enters the body, it can cause different types of infections:
Pneumonia: Infection of the lungs, leading to symptoms like fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Meningitis: Infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, causing symptoms like severe headache, fever, and stiff neck. Otitis Media: Middle ear infection, resulting in ear pain, fever, and irritability. Bacteremia: Presence of bacteria in the blood, which can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition.
