A Rare ‘Flesh-Eating Bacteria’ in Japan Kills People Within 48 Hours, All You Need to Know About The Major Health Crisis

A deadly disease caused by Group A Streptococcus (GAS) bacteria is reportedly spreading across Japan. Health experts warn of its potential seriousness, as it can lead to conditions such as streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS)

Written by: India.com Lifestyle Staff Edited by: Onam Gupta

Published: June 16, 2024, 12:17 PM IST

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A Rare 'Flesh-Eating Bacteria' in Japan Kills People Within 48 Hours, All You Need to Know About The Major Health Crisis

Cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), a disease caused by a rare ‘flesh-eating bacteria’ that can kill people within 48 hours, are spreading in Japan, according to a report by Bloomberg. This year, the country has recorded 977 of treptococcal toxic shock syndrome or STSS cases, based on data from the National Institute of Infectious Diseases. The government agency, which monitors diseases and their spread in Japan, noted that this year’s cases surpass the previous record of 941 cases reported for all of last year.

“Most of the deaths happen within 48 hours. As soon as a patient notices swelling in the foot in the morning, it can expand to the knee by noon, and they can die within 48 hours,” said Ken Kikuchi, a professor of infectious diseases at Tokyo Women’s Medical University, as quoted by the local media.

Other than Japan, five other nations from Europe have also reported cases of this particular bacteria to the World Health Organization (WHO). The rare flesh-eating bacteria is known as Group A Streptococcus (GAS). This aggressive bacterium can trigger infections, and if not treated properly, could even lead to death.

What is Group A Streptococcus?

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) bacteria, commonly known as streptococcus pyogenes, is a type of bacteria that can cause a variety of infections. Well, some strains of Group A Streptococcus can cause mild illnesses such as strep throat or skin infections like impetigo. However, more serious infections can also occur, such as invasive diseases like necrotizing fasciitis or streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. These infections are less common but can also be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Symptoms

STSS caused by Group A Streptococcus (GAS) can lead to rapidly worsening symptoms:

• Limb pain
• Swelling
• Fever
• Low Blood Pressure

These symptoms can escalate to:

• Necrosis (tissue death)
• Breathing problems
• Organ Failure
• Death

Preventive Measures

Group A Streptococcus Infections are usually treated with antibiotics. Preventive strategies include good hygiene practices, especially handwashing, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Experts have cautioned that people over 50 are more prone to the disease.