Erythromycin eye drops are routinely administered to infants to prevent infections caused by which organism?

• A. E. coli
• B. Haemophilus influenzae
• C. Pseudomonas aeruginosa
• D. Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Answer: (D)

Newborn eye prophylaxis targets preventing gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum, a severe purulent conjunctivitis that can occur if Neisseria gonorrhoeae is transmitted from the birth canal. Administering erythromycin eye drops right after birth provides immediate local antibiotic coverage in the conjunctival sac, and erythromycin is effective against Neisseria gonorrhoeae while remaining safe for neonates. This prophylaxis specifically aims to avert infection by this organism, which can rapidly damage the cornea and lead to loss of vision if not prevented. Other bacteria like E. coli or Haemophilus influenzae can cause neonatal eye issues, but the routine prophylaxis is established to guard against the gonococcal form of conjunctivitis.