Deadly ‘Skin-eating’ bacteria kills 77 People In Japan As Health Officials Report Record High Cases

Source: Ghanaija

A deadly ‘skin-eating’ bacteria has reportedly killed some 77 people in Japan as health officials in the Asian nation reported record high cases of the bacterial infection named Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS).

According to latest figures from Japan’s Ministry of Health, the deaths were recorded between January and March 2024.

Health officials in Japan have also reported a record high number of cases of the dangerous and deadly bacterial infection.

A new report by Japan’s Ministry of Health says as of June 2, 2024, the country had recorded 977 cases of the Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome.

STSS, says the Health Ministry, has a mortality rate of up to 30%.

In 2023, Japan recorded 941 cases of STSS. Japan’s National Institute of Infectious Diseases also reported 97 STSS-related deaths last year.

A professor in infectious diseases at Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Ken Kikuchi, was quoted by The Economic Times as saying:
Most of the deaths happen within 48 hours,” highlighting the rapid progression of the disease, saying that patients can die within 48 hours of noticing initial symptoms.

What is STSS?

Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome is said to be a severe illness caused by infection with group A Streptococcus (GAS) bacteria. It is characterized by the rapid onset of shock and multi-organ failure, which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.