RARE BACTERIA THAT CAN KILL IN 48 HOURS SPREADING IN JAPAN: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STSS

NEW DELHI: A rare 'flesh-eating bacteria' causing severe illness and potentially fatal outcomes within 48 hours is spreading in Japan. This follows the country’s easing of Covid-era restrictions, according to a Bloomberg report.

Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) cases have surged, reaching 977 cases by June 2nd this year. This is already higher than last year’s total of 941 cases, as reported by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases.

If the current infection rate persists, Japan may see up to 2,500 cases this year. The mortality rate for this disease is alarmingly high at 30%.

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) often causes a mild illness known as 'strep throat' in children, characterised by sore throat and swelling.

However, certain types of GAS can lead to rapidly worsening symptoms such as limb pain, swelling, fever, and low blood pressure. These can escalate to necrosis, breathing problems, organ failure, and even death.

The elderly, particularly those over 50, are more vulnerable to this disease.

Similar outbreaks in other countries

Other countries have also seen similar outbreaks. In late 2022, at least five European nations reported an increase in invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) disease cases to the World Health Organisation (WHO). The WHO noted the rise in cases correlated with the lifting of Covid restrictions.

Kikuchi emphasised the importance of maintaining hand hygiene and treating any open wounds diligently. He pointed out that GAS can be carried in the intestines, potentially leading to hand contamination through feces.