A rise in invasive and non‐invasive group A streptococcal disease case numbers in Melbourne in late 2022

First nations infant with complex invasive group A Streptococcal disease with pericarditis

“…GAS infections are usually seasonal with higher number of cases in winter and spring. In December 2022, rising numbers of group A Streptococcus infections were reported in the United States, United Kingdom, Europe and Australia 4 . This recent increase may reflect easing of COVID‐19 pandemic restrictions, as during the lockdown periods there were reduced numbers of circulating respiratory viral case infections and presumably less GAS exposure 4 …”

“…A study in Queensland reported nearly 4‐fold higher incidence (13.2/100 000) among Indigenous than Non‐Indigenous children 2 . Most recently, in late 2022, an increased number of iGAS cases were reported in Melbourne 4 . However, longitudinal data is limited and further studies are required to understand the recent surge in iGAS cases.…”

“…In December 2022, rising numbers of group A Streptococcus infections were reported in the United States, United Kingdom, Europe and Australia. 4 This recent increase may reflect easing of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, as during the lockdown periods there were reduced numbers of circulating respiratory viral case infections and presumably less GAS exposure. 4 Invasive group A Streptococcus pyogenes, although rare, is associated with high morbidity and mortality in children.…”

“…4 This recent increase may reflect easing of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, as during the lockdown periods there were reduced numbers of circulating respiratory viral case infections and presumably less GAS exposure. 4 Invasive group A Streptococcus pyogenes, although rare, is associated with high morbidity and mortality in children. It is estimated that more than 660 000 cases of invasive disease resulting in more than 160 000 deaths occur globally each year, most in developing countries.…”

“…2 Most recently, in late 2022, an increased number of iGAS cases were reported in Melbourne. 4 However, longitudinal data is limited and further studies are required to understand the recent surge in iGAS cases.…”