Pediatricians Should Be Alert for This Deadly Infection in Kids

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Source: MedPage Today

Original: https://www.medpagetoday.com/casestudies/pediatrics/119792...

Published: Mon, 09 Feb 2026 10:57:17 -0500

Two cases of Paenibacillus dendritiformis infection in infants resulting in severe meningitis have been identified in the US.[1] This invasive infection poses a serious risk to young infants and carries a high risk of neurological sequelae.[1] Researchers in the journal NEJM Evidence warn pediatricians to be vigilant about this rare but potentially fatal threat.[1] The infection caused severe neurological symptoms in both infants.[1] The study highlights the need to raise awareness among physicians who care for young infants.[1] The authors are from Penn State College of Medicine and other institutions in the USA.[1] The article was published on February 3, 2026.[1]