Which organism is commonly associated with epiglottitis?

• A. Streptococcus pneumoniae
• B. Staphylococcus aureus
• C. Haemophilus influenzae
• D. Escherichia coli

Answer: (C)

Epiglottitis is a sudden, life-threatening inflammation of the epiglottis that can quickly block the airway. The organism most classically linked to this condition is Haemophilus influenzae type b. This encapsulated bacterium used to be the most common cause of epiglottitis in children before the Hib vaccine became widespread. The infection leads to swelling of the epiglottis and surrounding tissues, causing symptoms such as drooling, dysphagia, muffled voice, and rapid respiratory distress. Because of this strong association, Hib is the best answer. Other organisms like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, or Escherichia coli can cause other infections, but they are not the classic culprits of epiglottitis.