Rising Cases of Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome in Japan Caused by Dangerous Bacterial Pathogen: Officials Investigating

There has been a surge in cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) in Japan recently, and the cause is a dangerous bacterial pathogen. Officials are still trying to find out the cause. It is reported that this bacteria may cause serious illness, with a fatality rate of up to 30% for patients over 30 years old.

The British “Guardian” reported that Japan reported 941 cases of STSS last year, and 378 cases have been diagnosed from January to February this year. Only 2 of Japan’s 47 prefectures have not had cases so far, and the number of cases throughout the year may break the record again. .

The medical community is warning that STSS, caused by group A streptococcus infection, is still spreading and is particularly concerning because it can be fatal. Officials from Japan’s National Institute of Infectious Diseases said it is still unclear why this wave of infections was so rapid and violent, and there are still many unsolved mysteries.

Mystery in #Japan as dangerous streptococcal infections soar to record levels. Concern is growing that the harshest and potentially deadly form of group A streptococcal disease – streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) – will continue to spread.

— Kristin (@Nitsirk) March 15, 2024

Most STSS is caused by group A Streptococcus (Strep A). ​​Symptoms include sore throat. Children are more likely to be infected, and most people may be infected without knowing it. However, this bacteria can also cause severe illness, especially in patients over 30 years old, and the fatality rate of STSS is as high as 30%.

Although older people are at higher risk, official Japanese data shows that many of the deaths occurred under the age of 50. A total of 65 patients under the age of 50 were infected between July and December 2023, of whom 21 died, accounting for one-third. Older people may experience cold-like symptoms, but in a few cases, they may worsen to strep throat, tonsillitis, pneumonia, and meningitis; in some cases, organ failure and tissue necrosis may occur.

Experts believe that the large outbreak of cases last year may be due to the fact that the new coronavirus has dropped to the same level as influenza, and people have relaxed their epidemic prevention vigilance. The route of Streptococcus infection is the same as that of COVID-19, also through droplets, physical contact, wounds on hands and feet, etc.

Group A Streptococcus is treated with antibiotics, but severe cases may require multiple antibiotics and drugs and be admitted to an intensive care unit. The Japanese health department recommends that citizens resume their hygiene habits during the COVID-19 period, keep their hands clean, and pay attention to cough etiquette to avoid getting germs on their bodies.

Wu Jianghao, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and Chinese Ambassador to Japan, said that China has no timetable for resuming visa-free entry for Japanese citizens.

Wu Jianghao was asked about his views on the future relations between China and Japan. He responded that “we will see” and that we must work hard to control the problems. He also believed that there are many problems.

As for whether China will resume the visa-free policy for Japanese citizens to come to China, Wu Jianghao said that it will be negotiated by both parties based on the principle of reciprocity. There is currently no timetable for implementation.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at a regular press conference earlier that China will seriously study Japan’s request to resume the visa-free policy and looks forward to Japan and China meeting each other halfway to jointly improve the level of facilitation of personnel exchanges between the two sides.

2024-03-15 09:22:34

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