Japanese health authorities have issued warnings in recent hours about the spread of streptococcal strains. Specifically, group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes), can cause mild symptoms but in some cases can cause streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, with a mortality rate of 30%.
So far, they have not found the source of the increase in cases within Japan, which reported 378 cases between January and February alone — 941 for all of 2023 — and, because it spreads primarily through saliva droplets, they Strict hygiene guidelines are being required, just like with the coronavirus.
Group A strep can cause throat infections and lead to illnesses such as scarlet fever or impetigo, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
As Cadena SER reports, this strep bacteria can cause symptoms such as sore throat, especially in children, while adults may experience symptoms similar to the common cold.
In some cases, it may also include “strep throat, tonsillitis, pneumonia, and meningitis.”
Symptoms of strep toxic shock
When it spreads into deep tissue and blood, it can cause the aforementioned strep toxic shock syndrome. “In almost half of the cases, experts don’t know how the bacteria enters the body. Sometimes, it enters through a skin cut, such as an injury or surgical wound. It can also enter the body through mucous membranes, such as the skin inside the nose and throat,” the CDC explains, clarifying that it is rarely contagious.
Strep toxic shock syndrome requires hospitalization and usually begins with fever and chills, muscle pain, nausea, and vomiting. Within 24-48 hours, blood pressure usually drops (hypotension), and tachycardia, shortness of breath, and even organ failure may occur.
To prevent this, the CDC gives three guidelines: clean and care for wounds, wash hands frequently, and take antibiotics (if prescribed).