Rise in potentially fatal cases reported in Japan bacterial infections,
Cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), caused by group A streptococcus bacteria, have reached 977 in the country as of June 2 this year, according to Japan’s National Institute of Infectious Diseases.
This is almost three times the number of cases registered at this time last year.
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The reason for the surge is not known.
This may be linked to weakened immunity following infection. covid pandemicAccording to Professor Ken Kikuchi of Tokyo Women’s Medical University.
Takeshita Street in Harajuku is one of the most popular streets in Tokyo. Japan is currently seeing a rise in a potentially fatal bacterial infection. (iStock)
“We can increase our immunity if we keep doing this consistently. Exposure to bacteria“But this mechanism was absent during the coronavirus pandemic,” Kikuchi told NKH World Japan.
“So, more people are now susceptible to infection, and this could be one reason for the sharp increase in cases.”
“If it’s not treated quickly with antibiotics and fluids, it can lead to sepsis and death.”
Thomas Moore, a clinical professor at the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita, said he’s not convinced the pandemic is the culprit.
“I can’t say for sure that it’s wrong, but it is something that spreads more easily when people gather together, as may have happened in Tokyo,” he said in an interview with Fox News Digital.
Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. (iStock)
“So it is not the effect of a weakened immunity, but rather it is a very strong immunity – a strong immune response that results in disease.”
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Dr. Mark Siegel, Clinical Professor of Medicine NYU Langone Medical Center And a Fox News medical contributor warned that STSS can strike an immune system that isn’t working properly.
“It’s similar to toxic shock syndrome, but with strep instead of staph,” he told Fox News Digital.
What is STSS?
Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome is a rare but serious illness. bacterial infectionAs defined by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
It occurs when group A streptococcus bacteria reach deeper tissues and the bloodstream.
“Everybody’s familiar with strep throat, and it’s usually the same bacteria,” Moore said.
One expert said, “The main difference between normal, common strep throat and this particular condition is a specific gene that produces a toxin that results in this severe outbreak.” (iStock)
“The main difference between normal, regular strep throat and this particular condition is a specific gene that produces a toxin that results in this severe outbreak.”
Although STSS is not usually spread from person to person, the less serious group A strep infection — which can cause STSS if it spreads to tissues or the bloodstream — is very contagious.
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Initial symptoms usually include fever and chills, muscle aches, and nausea and vomitingAccording to the C.D.C.
Within a day or two, blood pressure begins to drop, which can lead to more dangerous effects, such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing, sepsis, tissue death, and organ failure.
People suffering from STSS require hospitalization and immediate medical care, including intravenous fluids and other treatment for shock and organ failure, the CDC said. (iStock)
STSS can be fatal, and about one in 10 patients die from the infection.
Although there is no specific test for STSS, it is diagnosed based on the presence of group A strep, low blood pressure, and problems in two or more organs (blood, kidney, liver, lungs, skin, or soft tissue).
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High-risk groups include Elderly people over 65 years of ageThese people include those with open wounds, and those with diabetes or an alcohol use disorder, according to the CDC.
People with STSS require hospitalization and Urgent medical careThis includes intravenous fluids and other treatments for shock and organ failure, the agency said on its website.
Doctors say frequent handwashing is one of the most effective prevention tips. (iStock)
“If it’s not treated promptly with antibiotics and fluids, it can lead to sepsis and death,” Siegel warned.
He said that in severe cases, patients surgery may be needed Removal of infected tissue or even limb amputation may be performed.
Prevention Tips
Although there is no vaccine for group A strep infection, the CDC still recommends implementing prevention tips — mainly limiting contact with infected people.
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Proper cleaning and care of wounds and fungal infections is also important.
“If this gets on your skin “Wherever there is any type of break, it can invade the lymphatic system and cause infection,” Moore warns.
According to experts, proper cleaning and care of wounds and fungal infections is important to prevent infection. (iStock)
Doctors usually see this in people who have swelling in their legs Causes of ObesityHe said conditions like diabetes or athlete’s foot could be the cause.
“When streptococcal infection spreads through other parts of the body, such as the feet or a surgical incision, it can be quite serious,” he said.
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According to the CDC, frequent handwashing, following proper etiquette when coughing and sneezing, and thoroughly washing all utensils after use can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Treatment with antibiotics also reduces infection.
