Japan warns of spread of rare Streptococcus strain

Group A Streptococcus is raising alarm bells in Japan due to its worrying spread: 941 people were affected by the bacteria in Japan in 2023, while only There were 378 cases in January and FebruaryIt is reported world.

Looking at these numbers, the number of infections in 2024 is expected to easily exceed last year’s.

This streptococcus is caused by droplets of saliva and cause mild symptoms of infection, but in some cases they can lead to what is called Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, with a mortality rate of 30%.

The above-mentioned media stated that currently, Japan’s National Institute of Infectious Diseases The reason for the increase in cases has not yet been found: “There are still many unknowns about the mechanisms behind fulminant, severe and emergent strep, and we are not yet at the stage where we can explain them.”

This type of strep bacteria can cause symptoms such as sore throat, especially in children.Adults can also experience it Symptoms are similar to the common coldbut in some cases also includes “strep pharyngitis, tonsillitis, pneumonia, and meningitis. The most severe cases can lead to organ failure and necrosis,” the SER notes.

Mild cases can be treated with antibiotics, but more severe cases may require additional treatment.

Currently, health authorities advise people to maintain the hygiene guidelines put in place during the coronavirus pandemic, e.g. Wash your hands and cover your mouth and nose when coughing.