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Invasive M-type 3 Streptococcus pyogenes affecting a family and a residential home
M Barnham1, S Hunter, B Hanratty
1Department of Microbiology, Harrogate District Hospital, Fewston Wing, Lancaster Park Road, Harrogate HG2 7SX. mike.barnham@hhc-tr.northy.nhs.uk
Communicable Disease and Public Health
|July 27, 2001
Summary
This study details a UK outbreak of M-type 3 Streptococcus pyogenes, causing severe infections in a care home. It highlights the significant risk of secondary infections among close contacts.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- The United Kingdom has experienced its first M-type 3 Streptococcus pyogenes outbreak in 12 years.
- Invasive Streptococcus pyogenes infections pose a significant public health risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe an outbreak of M-type 3 Streptococcus pyogenes in a UK residential home.
- To assess the risk of secondary infections in close contacts of invasive Streptococcus pyogenes cases.
Main Methods:
- Case identification and epidemiological linkage within a residential setting.
- Clinical assessment and screening of residents and staff.
- Microbiological typing of Streptococcus pyogenes isolates.
Main Results:
- Four linked invasive infections (necrotising fasciitis, pneumonia, parapharyngeal abscess) occurred over two weeks.
- The outbreak involved M-type 3 Streptococcus pyogenes.
- Screening did not reveal further infections or carriage among contacts.
Conclusions:
- There is a substantial risk of serious secondary infections following invasive Streptococcus pyogenes.
- Current guidance on chemoprophylaxis for contacts is lacking but needed.