Streptococcal Bacteria: The Primary Cause of Group A Streptococcus Infection

Introduction

Scientists at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity and the Menzies Institute for Medical Research have found that streptococcal bacteria may be the primary cause of a serious group A streptococcus infection.

The Findings and Implications

The Lancet Microbe points out that, according to scientists at the two institutes, Streptococcus pyogenes (streptococci) are commonly found on the skin and in the throat. They can cause sore throats, herpes, bloodstream infections, and rheumatic heart disease. Researchers have studied how group A streptococcus is transmitted in a variety of ways to develop better disease prevention and control strategies.

To do this, the researchers analyzed the genetic composition of hundreds of samples of these bacteria taken from the throat and skin areas affected by herpes in the indigenous population of Australia.

And it became clear to the researchers that the main route of transmission was through the throats of people who had no symptoms of infection – 63 percent of cases. Knowing that it was previously thought that it was often transmitted through the skin.

Potential for Prevention

Based on this discovery, researchers could develop new ways to prevent the spread of this infection, for example, a vaccine could be created to fight these bacteria in the throat.

Source: Linta. EN