These recurrent episodes of infection and pain are not necessarily related to sexual activity. When infection is severe, sterility can result because of scar tissue and adhesions in the reproductive organs. In newborn infants, chlamydia is the most common cause of conjunctivitis, an eye infection. One to two weeks after birth, the infected infant's eyes develop a redness and pus discharge. 100,000 babies suffer this eye infection every year.
Pneumonia is also a threat if the chlamydia spreads into the infant's lungs.
Chlamydia is the leading cause of pneumonia in infants under 6 months of age. Chlamydia is curable with the right antibiotics. Not all antibiotics will kill chlamydia. It is important that you follow your doctor's instructions regarding your medication. You must take all the prescribed medicine, otherwise more persistent strains of the infection can result.