Japan Sees Spike In Disease Caused By 'Rare Flesh-Eating Bacteria' That Can Kill Within 48 Hours

Group A streptococci (GAS) are classified as gram-positive cocci that cause a range of diseases and exclusively infects human beings. (Image: CDC)

Cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), a disease caused by a rare “flesh-eating bacteria” that can kill people within 48 hours, is spreading in Japan, a report by Bloomberg said. The nation recorded 977 cases this year, as per data recorded by the nation’s National Institute of Infectious Diseases. The government agency which tracks diseases and its spread in Japan said this year’s cases are higher than the record 941 cases reported for all of last year.

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) usually causes swelling and sore throat in children, known as “strep throat”. However, there are some types of the bacteria that can lead to rapid symptoms like limb pain and swelling, fever, low blood pressure, followed by necrosis, breathing problems, organ failure and death. People over 50 are more prone to the disease.

“Most of the deaths happen within 48 hours. As soon as a patient notices swelling in the foot in the morning, it can expand to the knee by noon, and they can die within 48 hours,” said Ken Kikuchi, a professor in infectious diseases at Tokyo Women’s Medical University, was quoted as saying by news outlet Bloomberg.

Other than Japan, five nations from Europe reported to the World Health Organization an increase in cases of invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) disease of which STSS is a part. The WHO says the rise in cases came after Covid restrictions were lifted.

At the current infection rate, Japan could see 2,500 cases this year, accompanied by a “terrifying” mortality rate of 30%, Kikuchi told the news outlet. Kikuchi also urged people to ensure that they maintain hand hygiene and treat open wounds. The expert said patients can carry the invasive bacteria in their intestines which could contaminate their hands through faecal matter.