The General Directorate of Health (DGS) calls on doctors to be vigilant about infections caused by streptococcus A. The mostly benign bacterium has caused the death of three people in France in recent weeks.
Streptococcus A is the cause of mild and frequent infections, but in recent days health authorities have called for vigilance on this bacterium. In question ? A resurgence of cases and the death of three patients infected with streptococcus A, including two children. Tuesday, December 6, the Directorate General of Health (DGS) said in a press release that the health authorities had recorded a “larger than usual number” of cases of infection with the bacterium, in different regions, including Occitanie. , Auvergne Rhône-Alpes and New Aquitaine, over the past fortnight. Streptococcus A has already led “at least 8 children without identified risk factors” to the intensive care unit and three cases have been detected in adults, but these few cases are certainly not the only ones in France. The increased circulation of the bacterium is also linked to an increase in “serious forms” such as laryngitis, pleuropneumopathy or cardio-respiratory arrest also notes the DGS. However, the authority adds that the cases of Streptococcus A infection are “unrelated” and appear to be caused by “different strains”.
It remains to understand why and how streptococcus A is spreading in France. “Investigations” are underway to find out according to the DGS, which invites health professionals to participate in prevention efforts to identify infections caused by bacteria such as angina or scarlet fever, a very common childhood infection. Doctors are also encouraged to carry out diagnostic tests when the symptoms of these infections are observed and to report all cases of serious forms to the regional health agencies.
Streptococcus A, what is it?
Streptococcus A, and its cousin Streptococcus B, are bacteria responsible for infections that are mostly mild and especially common during the winter season. Angina, impetigo or scarlet fever (scarlet fever) are among the forms of infection caused by streptococcus A. In children and people at risk, the bacterium can however trigger more serious and sometimes fatal diseases such as the syndrome toxic shock, explains thePastor Institute.