Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome: This rare flesh eating bacteria infected over 1000 people in Japan

Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome: According to a report by Bloomberg, Japan is currently experiencing a surge in cases of Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS). What is streptococcal toxic shock syndrome It is a severe illness caused by a rare “flesh-eating bacteria.” This disease has the potential to be fatal within 48 hours of infection. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases has recorded 977 cases of STSS in Japan this year as of June 2. It surpassed the previous record of 941 cases reported last year. Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome symptoms. While Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is commonly associated with symptoms such as sore throat and swelling in children. Certain strains of the bacteria can rapidly lead to severe symptoms. These symptoms include limb pain and swelling, fever, low blood pressure, necrosis, breathing difficulties, organ failure, and ultimately, death. Official statement of experts According to experts, individuals above the age of 50 are more susceptible to the disease. It has been stated by experts that if the current rate of infections continues, the number of cases in Japan could potentially reach 2,500 this year. It is accompanied by a mortality rate of 30% that is deemed “terrifying”. Experts have emphasized the importance of maintaining proper hand hygiene and promptly treating any open wounds. They have also highlighted the possibility of patients carrying GAS in their intestines, which can lead to contamination of hands through fecal matter. In addition to Japan, several other countries have recently witnessed outbreaks of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, as reported by Bloomberg. Towards the end of 2022, at least five European nations informed the World Health Organization about a surge in cases of invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) disease. It includes STSS. The WHO attributed this increase in cases to the lifting of Covid restrictions.