Report of 65 cases of Haemophilus influenzae b pneumonia

During a 14-year period there were 65 cases of pneumonia caused by Haemophilus influenzae b; 83% were children less than 2 years of age and 80% of illness occurred in winter and spring. The roentgenographic picture was consolidative pneumonia in 75% and pleural effusions were present in 75% of all cases. Ten patients had associated meningitis and three had purulent pericarditis. Otitis media was diagnosed in 43% and H. influenzae b was isolated from eight middle ear aspirates. Three patients (5%) died. Recommendations for diagnosis and treatment are made.