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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a significant rise in invasive strep throat infections across the United States. From 2013 to 2022, the incidence of group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections more than doubled, increasing from 3.6 to 8.2 cases per 100,000 people, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
The study, which analyzed data from 10 states, identified over 21,000 cases of invasive GAS, resulting in nearly 2,000 deaths. Invasive strep can lead to severe conditions such as necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. The CDC noted that infection rates were particularly high among residents of long-term care facilities, the homeless, and injection drug users.
Dr. Christopher Gregory, a CDC researcher, emphasized the increased threat of invasive strep to both the general population and high-risk groups. The study highlighted rising rates of diabetes and obesity as contributing factors, as well as increased infections among people who inject drugs. The CDC calls for accelerated efforts to prevent and control these infections, particularly in socioeconomically disadvantaged groups.
The rise in infections has been noted globally, with experts like Dr. Victor Nizet from the University of California, San Diego, warning of the rapid deterioration that can occur within 24 to 48 hours of infection. The need for a vaccine against group A strep is urgent, as stated by Dr. Marc Siegel, a Fox News medical analyst, who noted the life-threatening potential of these infections.
As the CDC continues to monitor the situation, efforts to address underlying social disparities and develop a vaccine are seen as critical steps in combating the rising incidence of invasive GAS infections.