The level and annual dynamics of S. pneumoniae carriage among different adult population groups

Objective. To investigate the prevalence of S. pneumoniae carriage among different population groups in annual dynamics. Materials and methods. The prevalence of S. pneumoniae carriage was studied in the comparative epidemiological sampling survey among blood donors, the cadets of the Perm Military Institute of Internal Ministry Troops (IMT) of Russia, and healthcare workers. Bacteriological examination of nasopharyngeal contents was monthly carried out during a year. Results. Among the healthcare workers, the level of S. pneumoniae carriage was 21.4 ± 3.5%, which was 2.4- and 1.3-fold higher than that in the donors and the cadets of the Perm Military Institute of IMT of Russia, respectively (p < 0.05 and p >0.05). The carriage of S. pneumoniae was established to be seasonal; its rate becomes higher in autumn and spring. Conclusion. The healthcare workers are at high risk for S. pneumoniae carriage. The latter plays a leading role in the incidence of community-acquired pneumonia.

carriage, pneumococcal infection, seasonality