Drug-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae--Kentucky and Tennessee, 1993.

Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common bacterial cause of pneumonia worldwide in children and adults and a leading cause of sepsis and meningitis. In addition, it is the etiology of 30%-50% of episodes of acute otitis media, the most frequent reason for pediatric office visits in the United States (approximately 24.5 million per year). Because sensitive and rapid diagnostic tests are not available, most pneumococcal infections are treated empirically; until recently, penicillin (PCN) and related drugs have been the treatment of choice. However, because of the emergence of infections with drug-resistant S. pneumoniae (DRSP), decisions regarding the management of infections caused by this pathogen have become increasingly complicated. This report summarizes results of recent investigations by CDC and state public health officials of DRSP in communities in Kentucky and Tennessee.