Strep A infections, caused by group A streptococcus bacteria, can lead to a range of illnesses, including strep throat, impetigo, abscesses, and cellulitis. While these illnesses can be moderate, the invasive form of strep A can cause more severe conditions such as toxic shock syndrome and necrotizing fasciitis, also known as flesh-eating bacteria.
According to Dr. Cynthia Morrow, public health leaders in Roanoke City and Alleghany Health Districts are closely monitoring cases of invasive group A strep.
In 2022, there were 26 cases of community-acquired group A strep, which is more than the 15 cases from the year before.Of these cases, 10 were identified in people with skin infections and 10 in people with substance use disorders. The highest risk factors for developing severe invasive strep A infections include substance use disorders and minor injuries that compromise the skin’s integrity, such as scrapes and burns. Symptoms of invasive strep A infections include pain that is disproportionate to the wound, redness that is spreading, and a red line going up. Fever is also a cause for concern.
Dr. Morrow stresses the importance of seeking care immediately when symptoms arise, particularly those associated with skin infections. The good news is that strep A infections are treatable with antibiotics when identified early.
The health district is urging people to practice good hand hygiene and to properly clean and treat skin wounds to prevent the spread of group A strep and its invasive forms. While some years reported even higher numbers of cases, they were mostly contained to places like long-term care facilities, whereas 2022’s cases seemed to be more widespread. As such, Dr. Morrow wants to raise awareness of the cases to encourage people to seek care right away when they notice symptoms.
