CNN
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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says it is investigating a clear increase in invasive group A streptococcal infections, but the increase indicates a return to typical pre-pandemic levels. There is a possibility.
Like influenza and RSV, an invasive group A streptococcal infection known as an iGAS infection has been curbed by Covid-19 control measures such as masking and social distancing. said it is now hearing from some doctors and state health departments about an increase in iGAS infections among children.
“It is difficult to say whether the number of iGAS cases is just returning to pre-pandemic levels or whether it is increasing beyond normal expectations based on what we know about the seasonal patterns of GAS. It’s too early.
“The recent increase in respiratory viruses, particularly influenza, may also contribute to the potential increase in iGAS infections. It may increase the risk of iGAS infection.”
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environmental Affairs said Friday it is monitoring an increase in pediatric hospitalizations for Group A streptococci.
“Invasive group A streptococcal cases have increased in all age groups, but this fall has been particularly pronounced among pediatric patients,” spokesperson Paul Galloway wrote in an email.
Since November 1, the Denver metropolitan area has reported 11 cases of invasive group A streptococcus in children aged 10 months to 6 years, according to the department. Two children died, but no official cause of death has been determined, Galloway said.
this month, UK health officials advised parents and schools To monitor streptococcal infections after the death of several children.
of world health organization France, Ireland, the Netherlands, Sweden and the United Kingdom have reported increases in iGAS infections and scarlet fever, warning that children under the age of 10 are most at risk.
Group A streptococci can cause many types of infections, some of which are relatively minor. Streptococcus A, or Group A Streptococcus, is a bacterium found in the throat and skin that usually causes fever and throat infections such as strep throat and scarlet fever.
Invasive group A streptococcal infections, such as necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, are less common.
Necrotizing fasciitis is sometimes called carnivorous disease. According to the CDC, it’s a rare bacterial infection that spreads quickly and can be fatal. Group A Streptococcus is believed to be the most common cause.
Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome, also known as STSS, occurs when bacteria spread to deep tissues and bloodstream. “STSS can very quickly lead to hypotension, multiple organ failure, and even death,” says the CDC.
Strep A is not fatal to most people infected, and antibiotics are usually effective in treating them.
There is no vaccine to prevent streptococcal infection. The best way to protect yourself from germs is to wash your hands frequently, he says, according to the CDC.
“If someone gets sick with a group A streptococcal infection, timely treatment is important because it can prevent serious illness and complications. Texas Department of Health spokesperson Lara Anton said Friday.
