New Delhi: A rare ‘flesh-eating bacteria’ that can kill in just 2 days is spreading in Japan currently, reported Bloomberg on Saturday. The cases are being reported after the country released COVID-19 restrictions. The ‘flesh-eating bacteria’ called Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) is an aggressive disease that can be deadly within 48 hours of infection.
Nearly 977 cases of STSS have been reported in Japan this year till June 2, the number is higher than the record of 941 cases reported the previous year, according to the National Insititute of Infectious Diseases. However, the incidences have been tracked since 1999.
What is Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS)?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome is a rare, but serious bacterial infection. STSS can develop very quickly and can turn out to be a life-threatening condition. The bacteria can cause STSS when they spread into deep tissues and the bloodstream.
According to a report by Bloomberg, the bacteria is a form of Group A Streptococcus (GAS) that typically causes swelling and can cause sore throat in children called “strep throat”, but there are some types of bacteria that can lead to symptoms like limb pain and swelling, fever, low blood pressure. This can followed by symptoms like necrosis, breathing problems, organ failure and death.
Symptoms of STSS
Fever and chills
Muscle aches
Nausea and vomiting
After the first signs start, it generally takes nearly 24 to 48 hours for low blood pressure to occur. Once this happens, STSS gets much more chronic:
Hypotension (low blood pressure)
Organ failure
Tachycardia (faster than normal heart rate)
Tachypnea (rapid breathing)
Who is at risk?
As per the CDC, anyone can get STSS, but some factors can raise the risk of getting it.
AGE: STSS is very common in older adults who are over the age of 65 or more.
INFECTIONS OR INJURIES ON THE SKIN: People with an open wound are at higher risk for STSS. This can include people who recently had surgery or a viral infection that causes open sores.
OTHER HEALTH DISEASES: People with chronic health conditions or alcohol use disorder are at higher risk of contracting STSS.
Nearly 977 cases of STSS have been reported in Japan this year till June 2, the number is higher than the record of 941 cases reported the previous year, according to the National Insititute of Infectious Diseases. However, the incidences have been tracked since 1999. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
