The Truth About Japan's "Flesh-Eating Bacteria" Outbreak
Written by Churnika Gudla
Recently, scary headlines about a "flesh-eating bacteria" in Japan have raised international concern. While these reports sound alarming, Japanese health officials clarify that the situation is less dramatic than it seems. Here’s what we know about the condition called streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) and how to stay safe.
What is STSS?
STSS is a severe illness caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria entering the bloodstream or deep tissues. These bacteria usually cause mild infections like strep throat but can sometimes lead to more serious illnesses known as invasive group A streptococcal disease (iGAS). STSS is a dangerous complication of iGAS that can become life-threatening quickly.
What's Happening in Japan?
Japan has seen a sharp rise in STSS cases, with 977 reported by June 2, 2024, compared to 941 cases in all of 2023. Experts think this increase may be due to more respiratory infections following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and weakened immune systems from prolonged lockdowns.
How Does STSS Spread?
STSS is rare and not easily spread. The exact way it spreads is unclear, but people with open wounds are at higher risk. Those most susceptible include older adults, children, people with diabetes or alcohol use disorder, those taking certain medications, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms and Treatment
Early symptoms of STSS include fever, chills, muscle aches, nausea, and vomiting. Severe symptoms can develop within 24 to 48 hours, such as low blood pressure, organ failure, rapid heartbeat, and tissue death (necrosis), leading to the term "flesh-eating bacteria." Treatment involves hospitalization and antibiotics, with surgery sometimes needed to remove infected tissue.
Travel and Safety
There are no current travel warnings for Japan due to STSS. Both the Australian government’s Smartraveller and the World Health Organization have not issued any restrictions related to the outbreak. While STSS itself is not easily spread, less severe group A strep infections can be contagious.
How to Stay Safe
To protect yourself, practice good hygiene by washing your hands often, using hand sanitizer, keeping your body and hair clean, covering any wounds, and avoiding bodies of water if you have open wounds. Staying informed and maintaining these habits can help you avoid infection.
References
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-06-21/what-is-the-flesh-eating-bacteria-outbreak-in japan/103996264
Written by Churnika Gudla from MEDILOQUY