Greece reports scores of invasive group A streptococcus infections in 2023

The Greek National Public Health Organization (EODY) reports 94 invasive group A streptococcus infections (iGAS), caused by Streptococcus pyogenes since the beginning of 2023.

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Twenty-three (23) deaths are included among the cases (24% CFR), of which eleven (11) were among children under the age of ten.

Two cases of group A streptococcus invasive disease were recently recorded, one of which resulted in the PE of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace.

Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A Streptococcus, commonly causes mild illnesses such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis, impetigo, cellulitis, and scarlet fever. However, on rare occasions, the infection can lead to invasive disease that can cause life-threatening conditions and is responsible for more than 500,000 deaths annually worldwide.

Transmission occurs through close contact with an infected person and can be transmitted through coughing, sneezing, or contact with a wound.

The incubation period for the disease varies according to the clinical presentation, between 1 to 3 days. Treatment of infected persons with antibiotics for at least 24 hours usually eliminates their ability to spread.

Early recognition of iGAS infection and prompt initiation of antimicrobial and supportive therapy for affected children is extremely important for a favorable outcome of the disease. Close contacts of iGAS cases in the home and school environment should also be identified, assessed and treated according to guidelines with prophylactic antimicrobials where appropriate.