Possible Increases in Group A Streptococcal Infections

The Pennsylvania Department of Health released a health update on February 16, 2023. Below is a summary.

Summary

  • This guidance has been updated based on currently available information about pediatric invasive group A streptococcal infections nationally. This HAN replaces PA-HAN-679
  • Based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) preliminary 2022 data, the suspected increase in invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections in children is a return to levels similar to those seen in pre-pandemic years.
  • Laboratories are no longer being asked to store new iGAS isolates from children (<18 years of age) unless specifically requested by the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) or your local health department.
  • DOH recommends holding previously stored iGAS isolates for 3 months.
  • It is important for providers to continue to recognize group A streptococcal (GAS) infections early, especially among patients at high risk for severe illness.
  • Report cases of iGAS to DOH through Pennsylvania’s electronic disease surveillance system, PA-NEDSS.
  • Notify DOH at 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258) or your local health department as soon as possible about potential increases or clusters of iGAS infections.

Click Here for the entire health update. (PDF)

Related Posts

No results found.

Archives

Opioids For Pain