The bacteria, which are typically harmless and are often found in the throat or on the skin, are spread from person to person through respiratory droplets or from direct contact with secretions from the nose, throat or wounds. Group A strep disease is a common bacterial infection that often leads to mild illnesses that are commonly treated with antibiotics, including strep throat, skin infections such as impetigo, and scarlet fever. Public Health Ontario data show rates are highest among children and infants four years and under and among adults 65 and older. Though Invasive Group A Streptococcal Disease (iGAS) remains rare, data from Public Health Ontario shows an increase in cases since January, with April having the highest reported monthly case count since the 2014-15 strep season.Īnd the most recent data from Toronto Public Health shows a “higher than expected” increase in iGAS cases since November, with cases in May rising to more than twice the pre-pandemic average for that month. Pediatricians, primary care providers and hospital physicians, including those who work in emergency departments and labour and delivery units, are being asked to be on the lookout for “signs and symptoms” of Invasive Group A Streptococcal Disease.Ī recent memo from Ontario’s Ministry of Health, obtained by the Star, points to an increase in cases of the potentially deadly bacterial infection in the province and requests physicians be “on the alert” for the disease, which can quickly lead to severe illness.
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