Which long-term preventative measure is recommended for rheumatic fever?

For the long-term prevention of rheumatic fever, the recommended approach involves the administration of monthly Bicillin injections until the age of 21. This method is based on the understanding that rheumatic fever is a serious complication that can arise from untreated streptococcal throat infections. The goal of Bicillin injections, which contain benzathine penicillin, is to provide consistent antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent re-infection by Group A Streptococcus, thereby reducing the risk of recurrent rheumatic fever and its potential outcomes such as rheumatic heart disease.

This strategy is particularly important for individuals who have already had rheumatic fever, as they are at a higher risk of recurrence. By continuing the Bicillin injections until the age of 21, healthcare providers aim to ensure that these individuals remain protected during critical years of growth and development when they might be more susceptible to infections.

In contrast, the other proposed measures—such as monthly doses of Aspirin, annual health check-ups, or regular counseling sessions—do not specifically address the underlying risk factors associated with recurrent infections leading to rheumatic fever. While these measures might have their own health benefits, they do not provide the targeted prophylactic approach that Bicillin injections offer in the context of rheumatic fever prevention