Prevention of Rheumatic Fever by Treatment of Previous Streptococcal Infections

Abstract

RHEUMATIC fever can be prevented by adequate treatment of the preceding streptococcal respiratory infection.^{1 , 2} Most therapeutic regimens thus far recommended require either frequent oral medication for at least a week or multiple parenteral injections. A disadvantage of oral therapy is that it places the responsibility of maintaining treatment on the patient. In the majority of cases the symptoms of the streptococcal infection subside within three to five days, and the patient may then haphazardly take the medication or discontinue it completely. The physician can ensure adequate therapy for the prevention of rheumatic fever by the parenteral administration of penicillin. Since . . .