Insight into Group A Streptococcus Infections and Health Risks

Group A Streptococcus infections are caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes and can lead to various illnesses including strep throat, scarlet fever, and invasive diseases.
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Bacterial Diseases | Streptococcal Infections | Infectious Diseases | Group A Streptococcus | Streptococcal Illnesses | Bacterial Disease Risks
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Group A Streptococcus Infections FAQ


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What is Group A streptococcus?

Group A streptococcus is the bacteria that causes these infections and illnesses, especially on the skin and throat. Doctors commonly call it “strep A.” What Are Group A Strep Infections? There are more than 120 strains of bacteria that cause GAS infections. They spread easily but are mostly mild and easy to treat.

What is a group A streptococcal (GAS) infection?

Group A streptococcal (GAS) infections occur when a microorganism (bacteria) enters your body and causes an illness, most often in your skin and throat. There are more than 120 strains of group A Streptococcus bacteria, which is the bacteria that causes group A streptococcal infections. The majority of illnesses caused by GAS bacteria are mild.

What is invasive Group A streptococcus?

Invasive group A streptococcus is a bacterial infection. It can cause serious illness such as sepsis, meningitis, toxic shock syndrome and necrotising fasciitis. People with symptoms should seek medical care early. What is iGAS? Invasive group A streptococcal disease (iGAS) is caused by infection with group A Streptococcus (Strep A) bacteria.

What is a group A streptococcal infection?

Group A streptococcal (GAS) infections occur when bacteria enter your body and causes an illness. Most illnesses are mild and affect the skin and throat. The GAS bacteria is contagious and spreads easily. Antibiotics treat group A streptococcal infections. What are group A streptococcal infections?

Can a group A streptococcal infection affect a person?

Group A streptococcal infections can affect anyone since the bacteria easily spreads from person to person. People who have a GAS infection are contagious while they’re ill. They can pass the bacteria to you by coughing or sneezing or you can get the bacteria if you come into contact with an infected part of their skin (lesion).

What are the different types of Group A streptococcal (GAS) infections?

There are several types of group A streptococcal (GAS) infections that can range from mild infection, like a sore throat, to severe or life-threatening conditions. Mild illnesses include: Cellulitis: An infection that targets tissues deep beneath your skin. Erysipelas: An infection that targets the top layers of skin.

Group A Streptococcus Infections References

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