Increase in Scarlet Fever and Strep: Essential Information and Actions to Take
Global Resurgence of Scarlet Fever and Strep Infections
A notable increase in cases of scarlet fever and streptococcal infections has been observed worldwide since 2022, affecting multiple continents and resulting in deaths in some cases.
Scarlet fever, a contagious disease caused by bacteria called group A streptococci (GAS), is characterized by symptoms such as fever, a red sore throat, a red and bumpy "strawberry" tongue, swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck, and a rough, sandpaper-like rash on lighter skin or a detectable rash on darker skin. Antibiotics are commonly used to treat these infections.
The rise in cases is primarily attributed to post-COVID-19 pandemic immunity gaps and behavioral changes, along with enhanced surveillance revealing higher case numbers. The trend also involves shifts in circulating strains with greater virulence or transmissibility, potentially contributing to the surge in infections.
In Europe, at least five nations have reported an increase in cases of invasive GAS infections (iGAS), particularly affecting children under 10 years of age. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data shows that iGAS infections in children remain as high, or higher, than what was seen in pre-pandemic years for 2023.
In Canada, healthcare providers are reporting a rise in serious strep infections, with Quebec seeing a 56% increase in iGAS infections compared to the pre-pandemic average for the same time period. Some areas of the U.S. have also seen an increase in iGAS infections in adults, particularly those over the age of 65.
In the UK, cases of iGAS infections are slightly higher than expected for this time of year, and the UK Health Security Agency reported that scarlet fever cases in the U.K. remain higher than normal as of May 2023.
It is important to note that while the rise in cases is concerning, the risk of contracting invasive strep infections remains relatively low according to health organizations such as the CDC and WHO.
Dr. Sever, a healthcare professional, advises parents to help their child take steps to reduce their risk of catching, or spreading, strep infections. If a child shows symptoms of a strep infection, such as fever, sudden sore throat, red and bumpy rash, headache, and loss of appetite, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
In cases where antibiotics are prescribed, it is worth noting that pediatric doses of amoxicillin have been in short supply since last fall, but several alternative antibiotics can be prescribed instead.
This global trend underscores the need for vigilant public health measures and possibly accelerated vaccine development efforts to combat these infectious diseases.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Group A Streptococcus (GAS). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/index.html
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). (2023). Group A streptococcal infections. Retrieved from https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/disease-specific-information/group-a-streptococcal-infections
- Public Health England (PHE). (2023). Scarlet fever. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/guidance/scarlet-fever
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Group A streptococcal infections. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/group-a-streptococcal-infections
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Wastewater surveillance for early detection of antimicrobial resistance. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/publications/9789240035867/en/
- This resurgence of scarlet fever and strep infections has raised health news globally, affecting business-as-usual in the field of medical-conditions.
- The increase in cases is impacting digestive-health, eye-health, hearing, skin-care, and neurological-disorders, among other chronic-diseases.
- In the realm of care, more therapies-and-treatments are being developed to combat these infectious diseases, including the use of medicare and potential therapies involving CBD.
- Schools and educational-and-self-development institutions are taking extra precautions to ensure the health-and-wellness of students, focusing on personal-growth and fitness-and-exercise.
- Job-search platforms and career-development organizations are highlighting skills-training that can help individuals navigate through the impact of these infections on their professional lives.
- The trend has led to a rise in public awareness about respiratory-conditions and other potential complications, encouraging proactive actions for maintaining cardiovascular-health.
- The rise in cases has sparked discussions about the importance of skin-care for protection against pathogens, and the potential link between chronic diseases and autoimmune-disorders.
- In an effort to remain informed, people are closely following health news and turning to reliable sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Public Health England (PHE), and World Health Organization (WHO) resources.
- There are ongoing studies on wastewater surveillance for early detection of antimicrobial resistance to improve the fight against these infections.
- In the face of these challenges, communities are banding together to provide support and mutual aid in managing these infectious diseases.
- Healthcare providers are recommending regular check-ups and preventative measures to maintain overall health and minimize the risk of contracting or spreading these diseases.
- It is crucial to prioritize mental-health during these uncertain times, with increased stress levels and concerns about one's well-being.
- Efforts are being made to improve access to healthcare services and reduce healthcare disparities, ensuring equitable care for vulnerable populations.
- By staying informed, practicing good health habits, and working collaboratively, we can navigate this challenging global health landscape together.
