Japan is worried about a “flesh-eating” bacterium. As of June 2, the country’s Ministry of Health had recorded 977 cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), an infection caused primarily by group A streptococcus (GAS) bacteria. About 77 people died between January and March, according to the latest available data cited by CNN. The ongoing epidemic has already surpassed the previous record of 941 infections recorded last year in the Japanese archipelago.
Sometimes fatal disease
Group A streptococcus bacteria (GAS) are transmitted exclusively between men, through direct contact or through airborne droplets (droplets). In 80% of cases, it causes mild infections such as tonsillitis, impetigo or skin lesions, notes Santé Publique France.
It can also cause more serious infections such as dermohypodermatitis or necrotizing fasciitis. This disease causes complete destruction of soft tissue, hence the name “flesh-eating bacteria.”
Another acute complication is streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. In this case, bacteria cause organ failure by releasing toxins into the blood.
Fever, vomiting, lethargy
The main symptoms of SCTS are fever, muscle pain, vomiting and lethargy. “Even with treatment, SCTS can be fatal,” reminds the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The mortality rate is estimated at 30%. Older people with an open wound are considered to be at greatest risk of contracting SCTS.
This type of infection has been largely curbed due to preventive measures taken during Covid-19, such as wearing a mask or social distancing. The observed recovery may be due to a weakened immune system. “We can strengthen our immunity by constantly being exposed to bacteria, which was not the case during the pandemic,” emphasizes Professor Ken Kikuchi from the University of Tokyo.
Japan is not the only country affected. The French public health service noted an increase in the incidence of invasive group A streptococcal infections in children and adults in March 2023.
Source: Le Parisien
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