Why do Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae seldom cause meningitis in newborns?
A) Infants seldom come into contact with these pathogens.
B) These pathogens are unable to colonize infants.
C) Infants are protected by maternal IgM against these pathogens.
D) Infants are protected by maternal IgG against these pathogens.
E) Infants are vaccinated against these pathogens.

Question

Why do Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae seldom cause meningitis in newborns?
A) Infants seldom come into contact with these pathogens.
B) These pathogens are unable to colonize infants.
C) Infants are protected by maternal IgM against these pathogens.
D) Infants are protected by maternal IgG against these pathogens.
E) Infants are vaccinated against these pathogens.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Infants are protected by maternal IgG against these pathogens, which cross the placenta during pregnancy. The levels of maternal IgG decline over time, which is why infants are vaccinated against these pathogens after birth.

Why Do Neisseria Meningitidis, Streptococcus Pneumoniae, and Haemophilus Influenzae Seldom Cause