STAR-ADVERTISER FILE
The state Department of Health Laboratory facility is seen in the hills above Pearl City. The Hawaii Department of Health says it is investigating high rates of strep infection in West Hawaii over the past few months.
The Hawaii Department of Health says it is investigating high rates of strep infection in West Hawaii over the past few months.
DOH said a local physician identified a higher-than-expected number of patients infected with invasive Group A Streptococcus — also known as strep — in West Hawaii. The department is now working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to investigate these cases, including possible causes and risk factors, which remain unknown.
Officials said the overall risk to the public, however, remains low.
Group A streptococci bacteria — commonly found on the skin or in the throat – can cause minor to serious infections, according to the CDC.
Minor illnesses include strep throat and skin infections that start as a red, itchy sore. Early treatment with antibiotics is effective.
In rare cases, the bacteria can also enter the bloodstream or normally sterile parts of the body, in which it is then considered invasive Group A Streptoccus, or iGas, which can be severe or life-threatening.
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The most severe forms of invasive GAS disease include necrotizing fasciitis, also known as “flesh-eating bacteria,” and Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome. Symptoms include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes muscle pains and rash.
DOH said Hawaii has historically had higher rates of iGAS than the national average.
“The goals of this investigation are to confirm whether there is an increase in the number of people with iGAS in West Hawaii, identify risk factors, evaluate disease reporting, and better understand how infections may be occurring in the community,” said DOH in a news release.
“Investigators will also compare local trends with other areas of the state and analyze laboratory data to identify any patterns among people with iGAS infections.”
Older adults and individuals with chronic medical conditions such as heart, kidney, or respiratory disease and diabetes, as well as those with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk of infection. Having flu or chickenpox recently can increase one’s risk.
Additionally, people with open wounds or skin infections and people experiencing homelessness or who inject drugs, may also be at increased risk.
DOH said the public can take simple steps to reduce the risk of infection.
These steps include:
>> Keeping cuts and wounds clean and covered until they heal.
>> Washing hands regularly with soap and water.
>> Seeking medical care if a wound becomes red, swollen, warm, or produces pus.
>> Anyone experiencing fever, severe pain, or rapidly worsening symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.