Temporally Associated Invasive Pneumococcal Disease and SARS-CoV-2 Infection, Alaska, USA, 2020-2021

Streptococcus pneumoniae can co-infect persons who have viral respiratory tract infections. However, research on S. pneumoniae infections that are temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 infections is limited. We described the epidemiology and clinical course of patients who had invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) and temporally associated SARS-CoV-2 infections in Alaska, USA, during January 1, 2020-December 23, 2021. Of 271 patients who had laboratory-confirmed IPD, 55 (20%) had a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result. We observed no major differences in age, race, sex, or underlying medical conditions among IPD patients with and without SARS-CoV-2. However, a larger proportion of IPD patients with SARS-CoV-2 died (16%, n = 9) than for those with IPD alone (4%, n = 9) (p<0.01). IPD patients with SARS-CoV-2 were also more likely to be experiencing homelessness (adjusted OR 3.5; 95% CI 1.7-7.5). Our study highlights the risk for dual infection and ongoing benefits of pneumococcal and COVID-19 vaccination, especially among vulnerable populations.

Automated summary

Streptococcus pneumoniae can co-infect with SARS-CoV-2, resulting in dual infection. A study conducted in Alaska found that IPD patients with SARS-CoV-2 had a higher mortality rate compared to those with IPD alone, and were more likely to be experiencing homelessness. This study highlights the importance of pneumococcal and COVID-19 vaccination among vulnerable populations.