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iGAS infections on the rise in B.C.
B.C. is experiencing higher levels of invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections compared to historical averages, particularly among children. While much less common than other causes of seasonal illness in children, there have been 51 cases of iGAS in 2023 for people under the age of 20, over twice as many as expected.
Bacteria known as Streptococcus pyogenes, group A, typically cause mild illnesses such as strep throat or impetigo, a skin infection. While most people will recover with antibiotics, these infections can become more dangerous when the bacteria invades the lungs, blood, or spread along the tissue surrounding a muscle.
These more severe illnesses are known as iGAS infections and can cause pneumonia or sepsis and include conditions such as toxic shock syndrome and necrotizing fasciitis. These conditions can be life-threatening.
While serious infections remain extremely rare, BC Centre for Disease Control and BC Childrenās Hospital are advising families to be aware of symptoms, and when they should seek clinical care for their child.
iGAS infections can sometimes develop after a viral respiratory illness. Parents of children who have been recently ill can monitor for one or more signs of severe infections such as:
- A fever for more than five days in a child of any age;
- Fever with either a fine red rash (sandpaper-like texture), full body rash similar to sunburn in appearance, and/or red, swollen tongue;
- A fever in a child under three-months of age, a child with immune system issues or complex chronic health conditions;
- Child is working hard to breathe (e.g. chest appears to sink in just above or below the breastbone with each breath, you may hear grunting or notice the head bobbing with each breath in a young infant).
- Pale skin, whitish or blue lips;
- Very sleepy or having difficulty waking up;
- Child becomes very sick very quickly.
If a child is experiencing symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
BC Centre for Disease Control and BC Childrenās Hospital
