Coinfection with<i>Haemophilus influenzae</i>Promotes Pneumococcal Biofilm Formation during Experimental Otitis Media and Impedes the Progression of Pneumococcal Disease

Abstract

Based on these data, we conclude that coinfection with H. influenzae facilitates pneumococcal biofilm formation and persistence on the middle ear mucosal surface. This enhanced biofilm persistence correlates with delayed emergence of opaque colony variants within the bacterial population and a resulting decrease in systemic infection.