Thread by @ECDC_EU

#JustPublished!
Increase in Invasive Group A streptococcal infections among children in Europe, including fatalities .

Full press release:
ecdc.europa.eu/en/news-events…

#StrepA #iGAS

A number of European countries (IE, FR, NL, ES, SE and UK) indicate an increase seen during 2022, particularly since September, in the number of cases of invasive Group A Streptococcus (#iGAS) disease among children less than ten years of age.

#StrepA

During the same period, several deaths associated with #iGAS in children less than 10 years of age have also been reported. The increase has been several-fold higher than pre-pandemic levels for the equivalent period of time. 

Read more:
ecdc.europa.eu/en/news-events…

#StrepA

It is likely that the increase of #iGAS cases is associated with the heightened circulation of respiratory viruses, including seasonal #influenza & respiratory syncytial virus (#RSV), as coinfection of viruses with #StrepA may increase the risk of invasive disease (iGAS).

All European countries should be vigilant for a similar rise in cases in children, considering, in particular, the increase in respiratory virus circulation that is now occurring across Europe.

More recommendations:
ecdc.europa.eu/en/news-events…

#StrepA