Streptococcus pyogenes is the name for a Gram-positive bacterium that concerned Salta. It is the most common bacterial cause of acute pharyngitis and skin infections such as impetigo, cellulitis, and scarlet fever.
In 2023, 382 cases were reported to the National Health Surveillance System (SNVS) nationwide, of which 7 cases and 2 deaths have been confirmed in Salta.
In terms of confirmed cases of Streptococcus pyogenes invasive infections in previous years (2019 to 2022), the highest number of cases was recorded in 2022 (the year of lockdown), with 75 cases reported. The number of cases in 2023 increased by 281% compared to the same period in 2019.
Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as Group A Streptococcus, often causes minor illnesses such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis, impetigo, cellulitis, and scarlet fever. However, in rare cases, this infection can lead to invasive disease, leading to life-threatening conditions and leading to more than 500,000 deaths worldwide each year.
Transmission occurs through close contact with an infected person and can occur through coughing, sneezing, or contact with a wound.
symptom
Symptoms of pharyngitis are sore throat; fever; headache; abdominal pain; nausea and vomiting; redness of the pharynx and tonsils; bad breath; and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
what to do
When some of these symptoms occur, it’s important to avoid self-medicating with antibiotics and consult a doctor for prompt diagnosis.
Where antibiotic treatment is medically indicated, the treatment regimen must be completed (do not shorten or abandon treatment prematurely), as inappropriate use of antibiotics can promote bacterial resistance, compromising their future effectiveness.
Sick people should avoid public places (work, school) and limit household contacts. It is also important to wash your hands frequently; do not share personal items (cutlery, glasses, towels, etc.) and ventilate the room regularly and adequately.