Prevention of Rheumatic Fever

Abstract

Rheumatic fever is a recurrent disease which frequently can be prevented. Infection with group A streptococci precipitates both initial and recurrent attacks; therefore, prevention of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease depends upon the control of streptococcal infections. This may be accomplished by (1) prevention of streptococcal injections in rheumatic subjects, and (2) early and adequate treatment of streptococcal infections in all individuals. Bacterial endocarditis may result from dental and other surgical procedures in patients with rheumatic or congenital heart disease. When such procedures are undertaken, these patients should be protected by administration of antibiotics in therapeutic doses.