HIV/AIDS Glossary

Infection caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, which is spread through contact with respiratory droplets from a person who is carrying the bacteria. The bacteria are a major cause of common illnesses, such as inflammation of the sinuses (sinusitis), but can also result in life-threatening infections, including meningitis and pneumonia. People with weakened immune systems, including people with HIV, are at higher risk for bacterial pneumonia, including Streptococcus pneumoniae infection, than people with healthy immune systems.