Neonatal meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae type c.

Haemophilus influenzae type c was isolated from blood and cerebrospinal fluid in a 3-day-old fullterm boy with clinical signs of serious infection. Ampicillin, cloxacillin and gentamicin were instituted initially. After 3 days of therapy the child developed a hemiparesis. Treatment was changed to chloramphenicol and the baby improved. The implications of H. influenzae serotype c as a possible pathogen, early diagnostic procedures and therapeutic problems are discussed.