Mass Distribution of Azithromycin for Trachoma Control Is Associated With Increased Risk of Azithromycin-Resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae Carriage in Young Children 6 Months After Treatment

Abstract

Mass distribution of a single dose of oral azithromycin for trachoma was associated with increased circulation of macrolide-resistant S. pneumoniae carriage among young children in the 6 months following treatment. It is crucial that changes in antibiotic resistance patterns and their clinical significance in the treatment of severe pediatric infections be assessed in future MDA trials.