Streptococcal Infections (Invasive Group A Strep)
Group A streptococci (Group A Strep) are bacteria found in the throat and on the skin. Illnesses are usually mild, such as strep throat and impetigo.
Group A Strep can be life-threatening for people with chronic illnesses such as diabetes or cancer. Group A Strep can turn into Invasive Group A Streptococcal Disease, leading to diseases like necrotizing fasciitis or Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS).
Invasive Group A Strep
Invasive Group A Strep is a severe and sometimes life-threatening infection. A person can get invasive Group A Strep when bacteria invade parts of the body such as the blood, deep muscle and fat, or the lungs.
People with weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses like diabetes or cancer are at higher risk. Invasive Group A Strep can cause more severe conditions including necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.
Early signs and symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis include fever, severe pain and swelling, and redness at cut or wound. Early signs and symptoms of toxic shock syndrome may include fever, dizziness, confusion, rash and abdominal pain. Seek medical help if you experience these symptoms.
Prevention
Group A Strep can be spread by coughing and sneezing. People with no symptoms are much less contagious than those with symptoms.
Handwashing before eating and after coughing and sneezing can reduce your chances of infection. All cuts and wounds should be clean and watched for signs of infection. People with sore throats should see their doctors to find whether it is strep throat.
Symptoms of Mild Group A Strep
- Sore throat
- Skin infection
- Fever
- Increased redness, swelling, and pain at a cut or wound
Symptoms of Invasive Group A Strep
Invasive Group A Strep can become necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS). Seek medical help if you experience these symptoms.
- Fever
- Severe pain
- Swelling and redness at a cut or wound
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Low blood pressure
- Rash
- Abdominal pain
Treatment
Group A Streptococcal diseases can be treated with penicillin or other antibiotics. If you are diagnosed with a streptococcal infection, stay home from work, school, or day care until after 24 hours or more of taking an antibiotic. People with more severe cases including invasive Group A Strep may need care in a hospital.