is covid-19 is back in Japan

The world has not yet come out of the COVID-19 pandemic and a new mystery flash-eating disease has knocked Japan's door. Japan is facing a rare and dangerous bacterial infection outbreak which has a fatality rate of 30%. Doctors and health experts are working tirelessly to uncover the root cause behind the rapid spread of the infection. Japan's Health Ministry has advised people to take COVID pandemic-like precautions. But what is this mysterious disease? Is it dangerous? Should you be worried? Let's dive into what this deadly infection is.  

 

Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome or STSS is commonly known as the flesh-eating disease. It can cause necrosis of connective tissue covering the muscles in serious cases. While individuals of all ages can contract the infection, STSS is more frequently seen in individuals aged 30 and older with a 30% mortality rate among those affected, according to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID). Cases of STSS are projected to exceed the record set in 2023, with 941 cases reported last year. The first 2 months of 2024 alone have already seen 378 cases, a significant increase.

 

STSS is mainly caused by a bacterium called Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as strep A. This bacterium often leads to sore throat, especially in children, and many people carry it without showing any symptoms. Yet, due to its highly contagious nature, the bacteria can result in severe illness, health complications, and tragically, fatalities. The streptococcal infection primarily spreads through droplet infection or contact with wounds. Some experts speculate a possible correlation between the surge in cases and the post-effect of the coronavirus pandemic. Professor Ken from Tokyo's Women Medical University suggests that the immune status of COVID-19 survivors might affect their vulnerability to certain microbes. He emphasized the pressing need to grasp the infection cycle of severe invasive streptococcus to curb its spread effectively.

 

While some individuals, particularly children, may have the infection without showing symptoms, the highly contagious bacteria can lead to serious illnesses, complications, and even death, especially for adults over 30. In rare cases, older individuals may initially experience cold-like symptoms which can worsen to include strep throat, tonsillitis, pneumonia, and meningitis. In the most severe cases, it can lead to organ failure and tissue necrosis. Treatment of strep A infection typically involves antibiotics, but patients with the more severe invasive group A streptococcal disease may require a combination of antibiotics and other medications, along with intensive medical care.

Japan's Health Ministry advises people to follow the basic hygiene measures, similarly to those adopted during the coronavirus pandemic, including frequent handwashing and proper cough etiquette. As Japan grapples with this health crisis, the global medical community closely monitors developments, anticipating advancements in comprehending and managing this lethal bacterial outbreak. Well, now the question is whether Japan will return to the pandemic lifestyle.