Information on Streptococcus type A infection is provided by the Ministry of Health, clarifying that similar cases have not yet been detected in Cyprus.
As it states in its announcement, cases of Streptococcus infection have been observed in recent weeks in European countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Ireland and that the increase in cases is beyond the expected levels and mainly concerns children under 10 years of age, while a small number of deaths were also recorded.
He explains that group A streptococcus (GAS) is common and many people carry it on their throats and skin without showing symptoms of infection (healthy carriers). However, this particular pathogenic bacterium can in some cases cause an infection, mild or even more serious such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis, scarlet fever and infectious wax.
The Ministry notes that the serious infections associated with strep are from invasive group A strep (iGAS). These infections are caused when the bacteria are carried to parts of the body where they are not normally detected, such as the lungs or elsewhere through the bloodstream.
Streptococcus infection is especially common in children ages 5 to 15, although it can occur in younger children and adults.
Modes of transmission
Streptococcus is transmitted mainly by direct contact with respiratory secretions through the cough and sneeze of the patient, which is particularly infectious during acute infection.
Transmission is favored in places where there is overcrowding such as schools, camps, closed structures and public transport. The incubation time from contact to the development of symptoms is 2-5 days.
Main symptoms and treatment
Strep infections cause various symptoms such as sore throat, fever, chills and muscle aches. The treatment is to receive antibiotic treatment following instructions from the personal physician or pediatrician.
The Ministry urges to contact the doctor if the child's symptoms do not improve, if your child eats less than the normal if your child shows signs of dehydration and if your baby is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38℃ or is older than 3 months and has a temperature of 39℃ or higher.
Measures to stop the spread of the infection
The Ministry states that proper hand hygiene and strict adherence to personal protection measures are important to stop the spread.
With regard to the cases of Streptococcus infection observed in recent weeks in European countries, the Medical Services and Public Health Services of the Ministry of Health are monitoring the data and are alert for the early detection of similar cases on our island. so far they have not been observed, concludes the Ministry.
