The National Public Health Organization (EODY) in Greece is alert for the early detection of cases streptococcus in Greece following the outbreak of streptococcus A infections in the UK and the deaths of 9 children aged 4 to 12 years in recent weeks.
The Agency's experts set out all the facts about streptococcus through 6 questionnaires.
Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a common bacterium.[/B] "Many of us carry the bacterium on our throats and skin without showing symptoms of infection (carrier of the pathogen). However, this particular pathogen can in some cases cause infection, mild or more severe. The severe infections associated with GAS are caused by the invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS). These infections are caused when the bacteria are carried to parts of the body where they are not normally detected, such as in the lungs or elsewhere through the bloodstream."
1. How is group A streptococcus transmitted?
Group A streptococcus is transmitted through close contact with an infected person through coughing and sneezing or from a wound. Some people are likely to carry the bacteria without feeling unwell or showing symptoms of an infection and still be able to transmit it. The risk of spreading is much greater when a person has symptoms.
2. What infections does group A streptococcus cause?
Group A streptococcus causes infections of the skin, soft tissues and respiratory tract. It is responsible for infections such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis, scarlet fever and infectious wax among others. These infections are rarely severe and symptoms subside with medication.
3. What is group A streptococcal infection?
The most serious infections associated with group A streptococcus are caused by invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS). This can occur when a person has open wounds that allow the bacteria to enter tissue, from lesions in the respiratory tract after a viral illness, or in a person who has reduced immunity to an infection due to an underlying disease or medication.
4. What is happening with the increase in cases in children in the UK?
Investigations are being carried out following reports of an increase in lower respiratory tract infections from group A streptococcus in children in recent weeks, which have caused severe disease. There is currently no evidence that a new strain of the bacterium is circulating. The increase is probably related to high circulation of the bacterium in the community. The reason for the higher than usual rates of these infections has not yet been clarified. There is a possible combination of factors, including increased co-morbidity compared to previous years, as well as the increase seen in respiratory tract infections
5. What should parents look out for?
Strep infections cause various symptoms such as sore throat, fever, chills and muscle aches. If the child develops malaise, parents should contact the doctor. Especially, if. How can the spread of infections be stopped?[/B]
Good hand hygiene and adherence to personal protective measures is important to stop the spread of the pathogen. If children wash their hands properly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, use tissues for coughing and sneezing, and stay away from others when they feel unwell, the risk of transmitting and contracting infections is reduced.
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