Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS)

About Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS): 

• It is a rare but severe bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria.
• It occurs when these bacteria enter deep tissues and the bloodstream, releasing toxins that cause a rapid and dangerous response in the body.
• Symptoms
  • It starts with initial symptoms like fever, chills, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting. Within 24 to 48 hours, it can lead to low blood pressure, organ failure, rapid heart rate and fast breathing. 
  • Group A Streptococcus (GAS) usually causes strep throat in children, but in adults it can lead to serious symptoms like limb pain, swelling, fever and low blood pressure.
  • This can quickly worsen to tissue death, breathing problems, organ failure and sometimes death, especially in people over 50. 
• How does it spread?
  • It can be quite contagious and can spread the bacteria to others through respiratory droplets or direct contact.
  • Group A strep bacteria can also spread through food, if it is not handled properly.
• Prevention
  • Preventing STSS involves practising good hygiene, like washing hands regularly and covering your mouth while you cough and sneeze.

Q1: What is Bacteria?

Bacteria are microscopic single-celled prokaryotic organisms that play a crucial role in the ecosystem and have a significant impact on human health. Bacteria can be found all over the world, including the top of the mountains or the deeper trenches in the oceans.

Source: Flesh-eating bacteria' infection at record high in Japan: How does it spread?