Hawaii DOH and CDC Investigate Rise in iGAS Infections in West Hawaii
The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH), in collaboration with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is investigating a reported increase in invasive Group A Streptococcus (iGAS) infections in West Hawaii over recent months. This investigation was prompted after a local physician initially identified a higher-than-expected number of patients with iGAS in the area.
The primary goal of the investigation is to determine potential causes and risk factors, which currently remain undetermined.
Officials have stated that the overall risk to the public is currently low.
Understanding Group A Streptococcus (GAS) and iGAS
Group A streptococci are bacteria commonly found on the skin or in the throat. These bacteria can cause minor infections such as strep throat and various skin infections, which may manifest as red, itchy sores. For these common conditions, early treatment with antibiotics is typically effective.
In rare instances, these bacteria can invade the bloodstream or other normally sterile parts of the body, leading to invasive Group A Streptococcus (iGAS). iGAS can be severe or life-threatening. The most critical forms include necrotizing fasciitis, commonly known as "flesh-eating bacteria," and Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome. Symptoms associated with severe forms of iGAS may include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, muscle pains, and rash. Historically, Hawaii has reported higher rates of iGAS compared to the national average.
The Investigation: Goals and At-Risk Populations
The DOH's investigation is pursuing several key objectives to understand the current situation:
- To confirm any increase in iGAS cases in West Hawaii.
- To identify specific risk factors contributing to the infections.
- To evaluate existing disease reporting methods.
- To understand how infections may be spreading within the community.
- To compare local trends against other areas in the state.
- To analyze laboratory data for patterns among individuals with iGAS infections.
While the overall risk is low, certain individuals are more susceptible to iGAS infections:
- Older adults.
- Those with chronic medical conditions, such as heart, kidney, or respiratory disease, and diabetes.
- Individuals with weakened immune systems.
- People who have recently had the flu or chickenpox.
- Those with open wounds or skin infections.
- Individuals experiencing homelessness.
- People who inject drugs.
Essential Prevention Measures
The DOH advises the public to take simple, proactive steps to reduce the risk of infection:
- Keep cuts and wounds clean and covered until they heal completely.
- Wash hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water.
- Seek medical care promptly if a wound becomes red, swollen, warm, or produces pus.
- Immediately seek medical attention if experiencing fever, severe pain, or rapidly worsening symptoms.