Japan is experiencing an alarming situation as cases of serious infections caused by bacteria are increasing at an unprecedented rate. streptococci. This was confirmed by the art National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID).
They have been registered 378 cases in the months of January and February alone, an alarming number if we take into account that throughout 2023 there were 941. It should be noted that Japan has been living with this type of disease since 1992 and that it affected on average between 100 and 200 people per year.
The NIID reported that group A streptococcal infections are becoming more dangerous with the emergence of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS).
What is toxic shock syndrome?
STSS is a condition caused by bacterial toxins that can trigger serious health problems, such as necrotizing fasciitis, which has a mortality rate of 30%.
Specifically, toxic shock syndrome is one in which bacteria spread into deep tissues and the blood. It is not yet clear how it enters the body, but it is believed to occur through cuts in the skin or through the mucous membranes.
Another disturbing fact about what is happening in Japan is that specialists have not yet identified why the rare bacterium sometimes becomes fulminant.
Since the disease is present in almost all of Japan, the government has called on the population to take measures to counter the advance of the disease. The main: hand washing and wound care.
Scanning electron micrograph of Streptococcus pyogenese bound to a human neutrophil (blue). Photo: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of strep infections may include fever, rash, peeling skin, and low blood pressure. There may also be symptoms related to the specific underlying infection, such as mastitis, osteomyelitis, necrotizing fasciitis, or pneumonia.
If strep reaches the bloodstream, muscles, and lungs, symptoms can quickly worsen and cause low blood pressure, multiple organ failure, and even death.
If you do, the disease usually manifests itself as a sore throat or skin infections. Group A streptococcus can be transmitted in the throat or skin and through the close contact with an infected person through coughing, sneezing or contact with a wound.
Who can suffer from STSS? People of all ages, but the most common occurs among people aged 30 and older. Alcohol use disorder or diabetes can also increase your chances of developing the disease.
Trending on Google
In the week of March 17, the term “toxic shock syndrome” was trending on Google. This is shown in the following trend graph.
Photo: Google TrendsInterest in the advancement of this disease is highlighted by the pronounced peak.
Source: Clarin
Mary Ortiz is a seasoned journalist with a passion for world events. As a writer for News Rebeat, she brings a fresh perspective to the latest global happenings and provides in-depth coverage that offers a deeper understanding of the world around us.