Deadly 'Flesh-Eating Bacteria' Is Surging in Japan. Here's What You Should Know.

25 June 2024
WILLIAMS ET AL., THE CONVERSATION



(Francesco Riccardo Iacomino/Getty Images)

You may have heard reports in recent days of a "flesh-eating bacteria" spreading in Japan, referring to an illness that can occur with streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS).

Media reports indicate the country has seen more than 1,000 cases of STSS in the first six months of 2024, more than the total for all of 2023. However, these cases have not yet been published in peer-reviewed journals, so reports may not be entirely accurate.

STSS is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, or "Strep A". These bacteria are quite common, but certain strains can cause more serious illness – called invasive group A streptococcal disease.

Since 2022, many countries, including Australia, the United States, and countries in Europe, have noted a rise in severe invasive group A streptococcal disease. This surge is part of an overall increase in Strep A infections.

So what is STSS, why is it surging now, and is it cause for concern?

More:
https://www.sciencealert.com/deadly-flesh-eating-bacteria-is-surging-in-japan-heres-what-you-should-know