6 Facts About 'STSS' Flesh-Eating Bacteria Outbreak in Japan
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27 June 2024 21:05 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Japan is facing a surge in cases of a dangerous bacterial infection known as Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS). Since January 2024, over 1,000 cases have been reported, exceeding the previous high in 1999.
This flesh-eating bacteria can be deadly, causing rapid tissue damage and organ failure. Initial symptoms include fever, pain, and sore throat. Here are six about the outbreak:
1. Summer spike
Cases tend to rise during Japan's hot and humid summers (June-August), mirroring the spread of other bacterial infections. The 977 cases reported in June were the highest number of infections of this rare bacteria throughout 1999. The case claimed many lives in a relatively short time and the vaccine has not yet been discovered.
2. Weakened immunity and wounds are sources of infection
After further investigation, people over 50 and those with low immune systems are most susceptible to STSS infection. Besides, these bacteria will infect more easily when there are open wounds on parts of the human body.
According to RRI, one of the preventive measures highly recommended by the Japanese government is to strengthen the body's immunity by paying attention to nutritional intake.
3. Infection can be fatal within 48 hours
Referring to amp.abc.net.au, early symptoms include fever, pain, muscle inflammation, nausea, and vomiting. Seeking immediate medical attention is essential. If left untreated for more than 24 hours, the infection can lead to rapid deterioration, including organ failure, faster heart rate, and even death.
4. Treatment options
While no vaccine exists for STSS, effective treatments are available. Quoted from India Today, someone who experiences the initial symptoms of STSS must be immediately rushed to a hospital to undergo fluid resuscitation or administer antibiotics. Surgery can also be done to remove the infected tissue.
5. An increase in cases occurred after COVID-19 cases subsided
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Japanese government imposed lockdowns to prevent the spread of coronavirus cases. However, there was a rapid increase in STSS infections as the immunity weakened. The exact route of transmission beyond open wounds remains unclear, and researchers are actively investigating the bacteria.
MELINDA KUSUMA NINGRUM
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