Deadly bacterial infection is spreading across Japan

June 19, 2024  22:50

A deadly bacterial infection is spreading across JapanA deadly bacterial infection known as streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) is spreading across Japan, HealthDay reported, citing local authorities.In March, Japan's National Institute of Infectious Diseases issued its first warning of a rise in STSS cases.As of June 2, Japan's Ministry of Health reported 977 cases for 2024, already surpassing last year's 941 cases. It's also nearly two and a half times the number of cases reported in the United States so far this year, with 395 cases reported, not far from the 390 reported at this time last year.The disease is not to be trifled with: according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), STSS can "escalate very quickly into a life-threatening emergency."According to the agency, the first symptoms of STSS are often fever, chills, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting. After 24 to 48 hours, low blood pressure usually develops, which can cause more serious problems, including organ failure, rapid heartbeat and breathing."Even with treatment, STSS can be fatal. Out of 10 people infected with STSS, 3 people die from the infection," the CDC said.

Follow NEWS.am Medicine on Facebook and Twitter