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Group A Strep (GAS) is a common bacterium that causes a diverse range of relatively mild infections. The two most prominent infections of GAS are Strep Throat and Impetigo. Scarlet Fever is also an infection caused by GAS although much less common. Occasionally GAS is able to make it past the normal defences of the body and enter the blood or other tissues in the body where bacteria do not normally live. This is known as Invasive Group A Strep (IGAS) infection and can lead to life-threatening conditions such as: 

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  • Meningitis (infection of the brain fluid)

  • Necrotising Fasciitis (infection of tissue beneath the skin)

  • Osteomyelitis (infection of the bone)

  • Sepsis (infection of the blood)

  • Septic Arthritis (infection of the joint fluid)

  • Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome

 

Despite the emergence of antibiotics as treatment, infection of IGAS is an increasing problem. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with IGAS infections. 

Signs & Symptoms

Early recognition and treatment are critical so it is important to be aware of the early signs and symptoms of IGAS infections. Often these can be vague and begin with extreme flu-like symptoms. Prompt action is vital to ensure people have the best chance of survival.

 

  • Headache - Usually Severe

  • Aches - Severe & Loacalised

  • High-Grade Fever (a temp of 38C or above) - Usually not lowered by Paracetamol

  • Nausea and/or Loss of Appetite - Probability 

  • Diarrhoea and/or Vomiting - Probability 

  • Chills/Sweats/Shivering - Probability & Severe

  • Fatigue & Weakness - Probability & Severe

  • Dehydration - High Probability (Call NHS 111)

  • Decreased Urination - High Probability (Call NHS 111)

  • Non-Blanching Rash - High Probability (Go to A&E or Call 999)

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These symptoms can develop in any order and some may not appear at all. Bacteria that cause IGAS infections can also cause Septicemia (blood poisoning). The associated rash that often occurs is actually caused by Septicemia and you should get medical advice right away. Never wait for a rash, it can be a late sign!

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As well as the early symptoms further signs & symptoms can/will occur relating to each IGAS infection. Signs & symptoms of IGAS are variable and are related to the body area that is affected by the infection.

Early Signs & Symptoms of IGAS

Is it Flu or is it IGAS?

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Group A Strep (GAS) bacteria are highly contagious and are commonly found on the skin, or in the nose and throat. They can spread through airborne droplets when someone with the infection coughs or sneezes, or through shared food or drinks. You can also pick up the bacteria from a doorknob or other surfaces and transfer them to your nose, mouth or eyes. If you are coughing or sneezing remember to cover your nose and mouth and wash your hands regularly.

 

Occasionally Group A Strep is able to make it past the normal defences of the body and enter the blood or other tissues in the body where bacteria do not normally live. This is known as Invasive Group A Strep (IGAS) infection and can lead to conditions such as Meningitis, Necrotising Fasciitis, Osteomyelitis, Sepsis, Septic Arthritis and Toxic Shock Syndrome. The bacteria spread very quickly inside the body and release toxins that can cause shock and failure of many organs and tissues. 

 

It's important to know how to tell the difference between IGAS and the Flu virus. Knowing how to tell the difference between the two will help sufferers get more accurate treatment faster!
 

Both IGAS and the Flu are fairly contagious when somebody is experiencing symptoms. One obvious difference is that unlike the Flu, IGAS is not usually characterised by coughing and sneezing. With both illnesses you may experience a high-grade fever and whilst sneezes and coughs are considered integral to how the body manifests Flu they are exceptionally rare in cases of IGAS.

 

IGAS is usually exceptionally rapid; it seems to come out of nowhere and develop strongly within hours, whilst the Flu may come on over a period of days. People who are unsure about what they’re suffering from are encouraged to think about the timeline of their illness and whether it’s appeared very suddenly. It is crucial to get to the doctor if your illness feels like its more intense than usual and it’s really important to make sure you get treated quickly. 
 

IGAS is a bacterial infection that requires treatment with antibiotics while the Flu virus can’t be targeted with antibiotic drugs. The body’s own immune system must fight off the Flu virus. 
 

 

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Your story not only has the power to heal you, but it also has the power to help others. So we invite you to share your story; it could give someone strength, keep them hopeful, and even just remind them that they are not alone. 

 

We may use your story on our website and social media channels to raise awareness. You can email our team with photographs of yourself and the person who contracted the IGAS infection.

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