Strep A Might Get More Children Sick, Doctors Warn

A rise in invasive Group A streptococcus infections is now causing worries. The Public Health Ontario from Canada is confirming the rise in cases of invasive Group A Strep, and doctors are worried that more kids could get sick because of the condition, as CASTANET reveals.

Of four children two years old who were confirmed to suffer from A Strep in Montreal as of December 15, as the public health department of the Canadian city reveals, two of them died. 

More cases of Group A strep than in the past

Dr. Fatima Kakkar, who’s a pediatric infectious disease specialist from the CHU Sainte-Justine in Montreal, stated, as the same website mentioned above quotes:

It’s clear that we’re seeing much more Group A strep right now than I’ve had in the last, let’s say, five to seven years.

Invasive Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a type of bacteria that can cause serious infections, including streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, necrotizing fasciitis (also known as flesh-eating disease), and pneumonia. Group A streptococcus is a type of bacteria that is a common cause of infections such as strep throat and impetigo. However, some strains of Group A streptococcus can cause more serious infections when they enter the body through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes, such as the lining of the mouth or nose. These infections can spread rapidly and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly with antibiotics.

Symptoms of invasive Group A streptococcal infections can include fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, and redness or swelling at the site of the infection. In severe cases, these infections can lead to organ failure and death.

To prevent the spread of Group A streptococcus, it is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.