A deadly infection known as Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS) is causing a record-breaking health crisis in Japan. The lethal virus is commonly referred to as a flesh-eating disease. The reports regarding the matter have put the authorities on high alert due to its concerning development and have sparked worries both domestically and internationally.
Table of Contents
Outbreak of STSS in Japan
The main bacterial cause of STSS is Streptococcus pyogenes. They have the advanced ability to rapidly progress to create severe medical conditions like organ failure and connective tissue necrosis; however, it often starts off with mild symptoms like chills, a fever, nausea, and muscle discomfort. The infectious condition has an estimated 30% mortality rate.
Japan reported the highest number of instances ever recorded in 2023—941 cases in total. With 556 cases recorded in the initial three months of this year, the amount is anticipated to be exceeded in 2024. Mid-March saw 88 cases reported in Tokyo alone, nearly fifty percent more than what was reported in the previous year.
Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS)
Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome has been repeatedly linked to “flesh-eating bacteria” due to its association with Group A Streptococcus (GAS), a deadly infective group.
According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), STSS happens when bacteria infiltrate deep within the tissues and the bloodstream, releasing toxins that cause a quick and deadly reaction in the body. Even though it is uncommon for an individual with STSS to actively infect others, unchecked group A strep infections can worsen and develop into STSS. This infection may spread swiftly and damage the soft tissue in the human body, such as muscles, fat, and skin, provided that the flesh is being eaten away.
Symptoms
The early signs of STSS include fever, chills, aches in the muscles, nausea, and vomiting. Shortly after the onset of symptoms, tachycardia (a faster-than-normal heart rate), tachypnea (rapid breathing), organ failure, and low blood pressure (hypotension) occur. It can happen in a matter of 24 to 48 hours.
Particularly for individuals who are older than 50, the condition can rapidly progress into tissue death, respiratory issues, organ failure, and occasionally even death.
Contamination
GAS is very contagious since it induces STSS. Usually, contact with skin or respiratory droplets is how the bacteria are transferred from one person to another. Also, if food isn’t handled effectively, group A streptococci can potentially spread through it.
Although anyone of any age is susceptible to the infection, those over 30 are more likely to do so, alongside a significant rise in incidence observed in people over the age of 40.
Diagnosis and Prevention
Practicing good hygiene, such as often washing your hands and protecting your mouth when you cough or sneeze, can help prevent STSS. Maintain clean surfaces periodically and tend to injuries right away.
Tests for group A streptococcus bacteria and organ function are among the several procedures used to diagnose STSS. When a patient has low blood pressure, evidence of two or more organ failures (e.g., kidney or liver difficulties), and a group A strep infection, the medical diagnosis is substantiated.
Treatment
Heavy antibiotics are administered intravenously (IV) to eradicate the germs in STSS patients. In order to help their organs function correctly and to control their blood pressure, patients are given fluids.
Surgery may be required in extreme circumstances to remove contaminated tissue and stop more issues. In order to increase the likelihood of recovery and reduce the danger of major complications or mortality from STSS, prompt treatment is essential.
Future Outlook
The STSS epidemic in Japan serves as an alarming reminder of the significance of preserving strong healthcare services and the requirement for global collaboration in managing developing disease outbreaks as the world begins to emerge from the recesses of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Increased observation, rapid medical attention, and ongoing public education about preventive actions are necessary in this situation.
