Health Unit investigating iGAS outbreak in the area

North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
News Release

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The Health Unit is investigating an outbreak of invasive Group A Streptococcal disease (iGAS) in the North Bay/Parry Sound district. We currently have 3 related cases of iGAS.

iGAS is an infection caused by the same bacteria responsible for strep throat. While the majority of Group A Strep infections are mild illnesses, in rare cases it can cause a deep, serious infection which is classified as invasive. Two of the most severe but least common forms of iGAS are necrotizing fasciitis and Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. Most people who have these types of infection need hospital care. iGAS can be treated with antibiotics and supportive medical care.

The risk to the general population is very low. However, the risk is higher for those in close contact with an individual infected with IGAS. The most common risk factors include injection drug use, pregnancy, chicken pox, cancer, those whose immune system is not working normally and those infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

Symptoms vary depending upon the part of the body affected and the depth of infection:

 Symptoms of non-invasive infections:

o Throat: can include fever, sore throat, tender neck glands and swollen tonsils and ear infections

o Skin: can include blisters that can break and leak yellow-colored fluid

 Symptoms of invasive infections:

o Necrotizing fasciitis, often described as “the flesh-eating bacteria”, rapidly progresses and destroys muscle, fat and skin tissue. Symptoms include fever, severe pain, and swelling and redness at the wound site.

o Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) results in a rapid drop in blood pressure and causes organs such as kidneys, liver or lungs to fail. Symptoms include fever, sudden severe pain, dizziness, confusion, and a flat red rash over large areas on the body.

Take the following steps to reduce the risk of infections, including iGAS:

 Wash hands often with soap and warm water

 If you have a sore throat, see a physician to be tested for strep throat

 Keep wounds clean and watch for possible signs of infection like increased redness, swelling and pain at the site

For more information, call the Health Unit at 705-474-1400 or 1-800-563-2808, or visit www.healthunit.biz.

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“The Health Unit will continue the investigation and conduct enhanced surveillance and outreach. We will continue to communicate closely with physicians and community groups working with those at highest risk,” says Dr. Chirico.

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