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Group A Strep

All articles tagged with #group a strep

health1 year ago

Deadly Flesh-Eating Bacteria Spreads Rapidly in Japan

Japan has reported a record number of cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), a rare and dangerous infection caused by Group A strep bacteria. This rise mirrors trends in the U.S. and U.K., with experts attributing it partly to a post-pandemic rebound in bacterial and viral infections. However, the exact reasons for the surge remain unclear, prompting renewed focus on the behavior of Group A strep and the need for vigilant monitoring and research into potential vaccines.

health1 year ago

Tragic Death of 5-Year-Old Migrant Boy at Chicago Shelter Linked to Sepsis

Autopsy results have revealed that a five-year-old Venezuelan boy living at a temporary migrant shelter in Pilsen died from sepsis caused by Group A Streptococcus (GAS), with contributing factors including COVID-19, adenovirus, and rhinovirus. The child had fallen ill and was transported to Comer Children’s Hospital, where he passed away. He was one of several children who became sick around the same time at the shelter.

health2 years ago

CDC Introduces Innovative Wastewater COVID Data Reporting System

The CDC has launched a new wastewater data tracking dashboard called the National Wastewater Surveillance Program, which allows users to track local and national trends in COVID-19 viral activity, including by variant. In Denmark, Mycoplasma pneumonia infections have reached epidemic levels, with a significant increase in cases over the past five weeks. Argentina has reported a rise in cases and deaths from invasive group A streptococcal disease, prompting an alert from the Pan American Health Organization. A new study shows that the presence of group B strep in the placenta is linked to a higher risk of neonatal intensive care unit admission. Veterinary antimicrobial sales in Canada have slightly declined in 2022, with a decrease in sales for production animals and cats and dogs, but an increase in sales for pigs and aquaculture.

health2 years ago

Amoxicillin Shortage Worsens Strep Throat Season.

The CDC has warned of an increase in severe forms of group A strep, including necrotizing fasciitis and toxic shock syndrome. Strep throat, scarlet fever, and impetigo are caused by group A strep and can be treated with antibiotics. However, there is currently a shortage of the powder used to make the liquid preparation of amoxicillin, a common medication for young children with strep throat. Alternatives are available, including capsules, tablets, and chew tabs. It is important to treat mild cases of strep promptly and stay up to date on flu and chickenpox vaccines to lower the risk of invasive strep infections.

health2 years ago

Rising Group A Strep Infections in Evansville Hospitals and Beyond

Hospitals in Evansville are seeing a sudden increase in invasive Group A strep infections, which can lead to serious and severe complications. Symptoms include a new sore throat, sore throat with fever or neck pain, and cuts or wounds showing signs of infection. People with concurrent or preceding viral infections, chronic medical conditions, and those who inject drugs or are experiencing homelessness are at higher risk. The best way to prevent the spread of Group A strep is by washing hands often and practicing good hand hygiene.