The number of infections has surpassed 1,000.

Japan faces a dangerous streptococcal outbreak: The number of infections surpasses 1,000.

Japan is experiencing a significant surge in cases of Toxic Streptococcal Shock Syndrome (STSS), with the number of cases since the beginning of 2024 exceeding 1,000, according to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID).

This situation is causing deep concern within the medical community because it is a dangerous infectious disease that can be rapidly fatal if not treated promptly.

Group A Streptococcus bacteria. Source: NIAID

From the beginning of 2024 until June 9th, Japan recorded 1,019 cases of STSS, a significantly higher number than in previous years.

In just the first six months of the year, the number of cases has nearly doubled compared to the entire year of 2023, when the total number of infections was 941. Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is the hardest-hit area with 145 infections, mostly among people over 30 years old.

STSS is a serious but rare infection, primarily caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria, also known as "flesh-eating" bacteria.

When it enters the body, this bacterium can release toxins that trigger an overreaction of the immune system, leading to acute toxic shock syndrome and organ failure.

The mortality rate of the disease can be as high as 30%, and patients can die within just 48 hours of the onset of initial symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches, dizziness, and vomiting. Doctors recommend that anyone with high fever accompanied by delirium or red, inflamed sores should be taken to a medical facility immediately.

Prompt and urgent treatment is crucial in saving the lives of patients with STSS. Additionally, patients often require surgery to remove infected tissue. The risk of infection is higher in individuals with open wounds or those who have recently undergone surgery or had infections such as chickenpox. Therefore, proper wound hygiene and care are extremely important to prevent infection.

Japanese health officials are urging the public to raise awareness of STSS symptoms and seek medical attention promptly when needed. At the same time, hospitals and medical facilities are increasing their capacity to cope with the growing number of patients.

Source: https://baodautu.vn/nhat-ban-doi-mat-voi-dot-bung-phat-lien-cau-khuan-nguy-hiem-so-ca-nhiem-vuot-moc-1000-d217970.html