Right in the middle of Canada’s respiratory virus season, there has been a notable increase in strep A cases, some leading to invasive diseases resulting in hospitalizations and, unfortunately, fatalities among children. Invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) occurs when the bacteria cause deeper infections and are isolated from typically sterile body sites, such as the blood, according to the agency.

Respiratory viruses like influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can elevate the risk of contracting strep A. Strep A, bacteria found on the skin and throat, can induce a variety of diseases in both children and adults. Infection may stem from direct contact with infected skin wounds or respiratory fluids expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The body’s weakened immune system during the fight against viral infections increases the susceptibility to secondary infections like Strep A.

Most cases present mild symptoms such as fever, sore throat, skin rash, sores, bumps, and blisters in non-invasive infections, according to PHAC. Strep throat, or pharyngitis, is more prevalent in children than adults. Given the symptom overlap with respiratory viral infections, parents should remain vigilant for a sore throat accompanied by fever unrelated to a new runny nose, blocked nose, or cough. If an individual simultaneously exhibits a sore throat, fever, and other cold symptoms within a day or two, it is likely viral rather than strep.

Skin infections from GAS can be benign, resulting in crusting and oozing, with the affected person generally not being severely affected. However, in rare cases of invasive infection, patients may experience severe symptoms like pneumonia and toxic shock syndrome, leading to a dangerous drop in blood pressure, vomiting, and diarrhea. The most severe manifestation of invasive group A strep is necrotizing fasciitis, commonly known as flesh-eating disease, which breaks down skin and muscle tissues. Individuals with breaks in the skin, such as cuts, chickenpox, or burns, those with chronic diseases, or those with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of strep A infection, according to PHAC.

Antibiotics, especially penicillin, prove effective in treating both invasive and non-invasive strep A cases. Strep A is sensitive to penicillin, making it highly manageable. For those allergic to penicillin, a variety of alternatives are available, as strep A is sensitive to all of them.

In the event of a GAS diagnosis, PHAC recommends staying home for 24 hours after initiating antibiotic treatment to prevent potential transmission. An individual is typically no longer infectious to others 18 hours after commencing antibiotic therapy. If a child experiences shortness of breath, progressive lethargy, or has a persistent fever unresponsive to acetaminophen, seeking advice from a healthcare provider is strongly advised.

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