Minimum amount of penicillin prophylaxis required to control Streptococcus pyogenes epidemic in closed community. Issue 6335 (10th July 1982)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Colling, A; Kerr, I; Maxted, W R; Widdowson, J P
• Is Part Of: BMJ. Volume 285:Issue 6335(1982)
• Page Start: 95
• Page End: 96
• Publication Date: 1982-07-10
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine; Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/bmj.285.6335.95
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1447

Abstract

Abstract : The prophylaxis required to control an epidemic of Streptococcus pyogenes throat infection in a junior detention centre has been reported. In a further epidemic an attempt was made to determine the minimum amount of penicillin required to control the outbreak. Oral penicillin (0.5 g) given as a single daily dose for 10 days to all boys after entry proved effective. The added risk of relatively deprived adolescent boys developing rheumatic fever is stressed.