Haemophilus meningitis in Portsmouth.

The clinical features and follow-up data of all twenty-five children admitted to a Portsmouth hospital from Jan. 1, 1972, to July 1, 1975, with haemophilus meningitis were reviewed. Two children died of meningitis and one of other causes. Four have residual damage--two severe, one definite, and one possible. Outcome tended to be worse in cases with the following features: age less than 9 months at the time of illness, difficult diagnosis, antibiotic treatment before admission, combined treatment with chloramphenicol and ampicillin, and difficulties at home. The continuing high morbidity indicates that children with this disease need careful follow-up.