A rare and deadly bacterial infection known as Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS) is spreading at an alarming rate in Japan, leaving health officials bewildered.
Japan is likely to see a significant increase in cases of STSS, which has a mortality rate of 30% and is typically caused by Group A Streptococcus, according to the Japan Times.
This situation has left health experts puzzled, urging the public to wash their hands and properly clean wounds to limit the spread of the infection.
The National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) stated to The Guardian: “There are still many unknown factors related to the mechanisms behind severe and sudden outbreaks of streptococcus, and we are not at a stage where we can explain them.”
NIID reported 941 cases of STSS in 2023. However, in the first two months of 2024, 378 cases were recorded across 45 out of 47 prefectures in Japan.
While the average number of cases has been only 100-200 annually since STSS was first identified in the country in 1992, that number surged to a record high of 894 cases in 2019.
People wearing masks in a shopping street in central Osaka, Japan on March 15, 2024. (Photo: AFP)
Most cases of STSS are caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, commonly referred to as strep A, which primarily causes throat infections in children. However, many carriers of the bacteria exhibit no symptoms.
According to NIID, this bacterium is highly contagious and can lead to severe illness and death in individuals over 30, with older adults at higher risk.
The agency reported that the Group A strain is causing more fatalities among patients under 50 years of age. 21 out of 65 individuals under 50 diagnosed with STSS between July and December 23, 2023, have died, as reported by Asahi Shimbun.
In severe cases, STSS can result in the necrosis of connective tissues surrounding muscles and even lead to organ failure. Health officials stated that patients are prescribed antibiotics, but in severe cases, affected tissue must be surgically removed.
Some health officials attribute the surge to Japan’s easing of pandemic restrictions following a gradual decline in COVID-19 cases.
Japan’s Minister of Health Keizo Takemi told reporters earlier this year: “We want everyone to take preventive measures such as keeping fingers and hands clean and practicing proper hygiene when coughing.”
To reduce the risk of contracting or spreading the disease, individuals should avoid close contact with infected persons, wash their hands frequently, use tissues to cover their nose and mouth after coughing or sneezing, and promptly dispose of used tissues.
Common symptoms of strep A include:
- Flu-like symptoms such as high fever, swollen lymph nodes, or body aches
- Sore throat (strep throat or tonsillitis)
- Rash
- Scaly skin and ulcers (impetigo)
- Pain and swelling (cellulitis)
- Severe muscle pain
- Nausea and vomiting
