BC officials warn of surging invasive strep throat infections, especially among children

The BC Centre for Disease Control and BC Children’s Hospital issued a warning about the surge in group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections, which can start as strep throat but escalate to more severe illnesses.

Recent reports as of Friday indicated 547 documented cases of iGAS province-wide, marking a rate of 10.1 cases per 100,000 individuals.

This figure represents a notable increase from the 466 cases recorded in 2022.

Comparatively, back in 2016, the province saw 303 reported cases, reflecting a rate of 6.2 cases per 100,000 people.

The bacterial infection, iGAS, stems from group A Streptococcus pyogenes. While it commonly leads to mild conditions like strep throat or impetigo, it can escalate to serious illnesses if it infiltrates the lungs, bloodstream, or muscle tissues.

Severe iGAS infections can result in pneumonia or sepsis, according to the BCCDC.

Although such severe cases remain exceptionally rare in BC, authorities emphasize the potential life-threatening nature of iGAS, particularly among individuals with chronic health issues such as cancer, heart or lung disease, diabetes, those on steroid medications, and children.

Highlighting the alarming trend, the BCCDC noted a surge in iGAS cases among children this year. Figures show 51 cases among individuals under 20, more than doubling last year’s tally of 20 cases within the same age group.

Parents are strongly advised by officials to seek immediate medical attention if a child displays symptoms of a severe iGAS infection. Symptoms identified by the BCCDC include prolonged fever, distinctive rashes, breathing difficulties, extreme fatigue, and rapid deterioration in health.

In an effort to curb group A streptococcal infections, health authorities recommend consistent handwashing, staying home when ill, monitoring and cleaning wounds for potential infections, and ensuring up-to-date vaccinations against flu and COVID-19.