Cases of strep bacterial infection with extremely high death rate hit record high in Japan

TOKYO — Yearly cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, a disease with an extremely high fatality rate, have reached a record high in Japan.

The disease is an infection caused mainly by Group A hemolytic streptococcus bacteria. Its serious symptoms worsen rapidly and can be fatal within a short period of time.

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1,060 patients had been reported by June 16 this year, exceeding the record number of 941 reported last year in about six months. Of the 335 cases reported by March of this year, 77 people died.

Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome’s symptoms often begin with pain and swelling in the arms and legs, a fever and a drop in blood pressure, followed by necrosis of the limbs and multiple organ failure, resulting in a state of shock. Treatment involves the use of antibacterial drugs to kill the bacteria and the surgical removal of necrotic tissue. It is a very serious infection with a mortality rate of about 30%.

Hemolytic streptococci generally cause “acute pharyngitis” with symptoms such as a sore throat and fever. The reason for the increase in the number of patients is not clear, but one reason is thought to be the rise in the number of patients with acute pharyngitis caused by Group A hemolytic streptococci since last summer.

This infection tends to be reported more frequently among the elderly, but the mechanism of pathogenesis is not clear. Hemolytic streptococci are said to be easily transmitted by droplets from coughing and sneezing, as well as from wounds. Basic infection prevention measures such as hand washing, disinfection, cough etiquette and keeping wounds clean are considered effective. Once a person develops the disease, treatment is a race against time. If there is fever or pain and swelling of the wound, go to a medical institution immediately.

(Japanese original by Sooryeon Kim, Lifestyle, Science & Environment News Department)