Streptococcal Invasive Disease Group A, 2015

MDH has been conducting active surveillance for invasive disease caused by group A Streptococcus (GAS), also known as Streptococcus pyogenes, since 1995. Invasive GAS is defined as GAS isolated from a usually sterile site such as blood, cerebrospinal fluid, or from a wound when accompanied with necrotizing fasciitis or streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS).

Two hundred thirty-six cases (4.2 cases per 100,000 population), including 14 deaths, were reported in 2015, compared to 259 cases and 27 deaths in 2014. Ages of cases ranged from 0 to 101 years (median, 52 years). Fiftythree percent of cases were residents of the metropolitan area. Seventy (30%) cases had cellulitis, 49 (21%) had bacteremia without another focus of infection, 42 (18%) had septic arthritis and/or osteomyelitis, 20 (8%) had an abscess, 43 (18%) had septic shock, and 14 (6%) had necrotizing fasciitis. Fourteen (6%) cases were residents of long-term care facilities. Twelve facilities had a single case, and one facility had 2 cases. The 14 deaths included 3 cases of bacteremia without another focus of infection, 5 cases septic shock, and 5 cases of pneumonia. Two fatal cases had both septic shock and pneumonia. The deaths occurred in persons ranging in age from 11 to 94 years. Two fatal cases had no underlying medical conditions reported. Of the 12 deaths where underlying medical condition was known, the most frequently reported were current smoking (7), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (4), solid organ malignancy (4), and diabetes (4).

• For up to date information see>> Group A Streptococcus (GAS)
• Full issue>> Annual Summary of Communicable Diseases Reported to the Minnesota Department of Health, 2015