Sharp Rise In Rare Infections Has Experts On Edge
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association highlights the alarming rise of invasive group A strep infections in the U.S., with cases more than doubling from 2013 to 2022. The infections occur when strep bacteria spread to normally sterile areas of the body, like the lungs or bloodstream, leading to severe conditions such as necrotizing fasciitis or toxic shock syndrome.
From 2013 to 2022, cases of invasive strep infections rose from 1,082 to 2,759, with over 21,000 cases recorded and nearly 2,000 deaths. This surge is concerning, as it suggests a potentially much higher national death toll, especially considering that more people today live with underlying conditions like diabetes or obesity, which compromise the immune system.
Researchers point to factors like changes in strep strains and increasing infections among high-risk populations, such as people who inject drugs or those experiencing homelessness, as key drivers of this trend. Interestingly, while the infection rate has risen significantly among older adults, the study found that children’s infection rates did not increase overall, though doctors are observing more severe cases.
Experts are calling for more research to understand the cause behind the increase and the evolving nature of these infections. They also emphasize the urgent need for a vaccine to combat these dangerous strains, though progress has been hindered by recent challenges at the FDA.
With the rise in both the severity and the spread of these infections, there’s a clear need for more targeted interventions and better public awareness to reduce the growing threat to vulnerable populations.
Discussion about this post