The CDC has uncovered a significant rise in invasive group A Streptococcus infections, which has alarmed public health officials. With more than a twofold increase since 2013, these infections pose a deadly threat, particularly to vulnerable populations. As this menace grows, the need for vigilant testing, mindful antibiotic use, and strong preventive measures is more urgent than ever.
Doubled Infection Rates
Invasive group A strep infections have surged to alarming levels in the U.S. between 2013 and 2022. This rise follows a stable 17-year period, suddenly impacting the health landscape.
A decade-long study of around 35 million Americans in 10 states has found that group A streptococcus infections have more than doubled by 2022. What's more, "strep" – which also causes a bizarre flesh-eating disease – had become shockingly resistant to common antibiotics.… pic.twitter.com/n7cxMg0AG2
— New Atlas (@nwtls) April 9, 2025
The CDC’s study, which covered 10 states and around 35 million people, reported a jump from 4 to 8 cases per 100,000 people. Over this period, over 21,000 cases and nearly 2,000 deaths occurred.
High-Risk Groups
The elderly, drug users, and those with chronic medical issues are at higher risk. Rising diabetes, obesity, and homelessness contribute to these infections.
Invasive Strep Infections Are Rising in the U.S. | TIME https://t.co/dudXdZCBHb
— Morgan Fairchild (@morgfair) April 10, 2025
Most cases result from seven to eight group A strep strains, with varying circulation times. A pediatric case spike in late 2022 is linked to respiratory viruses.
Need for Vigilant Measures
Invasive group A strep strains are diversifying, warning of potential antibiotic resistance. Researchers highlight the critical need for a strep vaccine.
“Because clinically, we are seeing what feels like an increase. We are just seeing more severe cases, more unusual cases, more necrotizing fasciitis, and cases that raise concern that something is happening more nationally” – Dr. Allison Eckard.
On the frontline, penicillin remains effective, but resistance to others is troubling. Enhanced testing, hand hygiene, and wound protection are crucial defense tactics.
Sources:
https://nypost.com/2025/04/10/health/cases-of-deadly-invasive-strep-have-nearly-doubled-in-the-us/
https://time.com/7276379/invasive-group-a-strep-rates-us-rising/