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Updated: May 27, 2026

A Murine Model of Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Colonization
Published on: November 16, 2016
[Clustered cases of intrafamily invasive Streptococcus pyogenes infection (or group A streptococcus)]
S Caillet-Gossot1, C Rousset-Rouviere, K Arlaud
1Unité de médecine infantile, hôpital La-Timone, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, France.
Abstract:
Streptococcus pyogenes or group A streptococcus (GAS) is responsible for serious invasive infections with a risk of secondary infection in patients with more contact than in the general population. Regardless of clustering, few intrafamilial invasive infections have been reported despite a recent increase in the incidence of invasive GAS disease. We report the cases of two brothers, one a boy of 8.5 years with toxic shock syndrome with no bacteria identified and the second, 1 week later, his 14.5-year-old brother in hospital for sepsis due to GAS. The occurrence of a confirmed case of invasive GAS and a probable case within such a short period met the definition of clustered cases. Both brothers showed no risk factors for invasive disease and no gateway including skin was found. Antibiotic therapy was initiated in the family as recommended by the French Higher Council of Public Hygiene.
Insights
Two brothers experienced invasive Group A Streptococcus infections, including sepsis and toxic shock syndrome, within a week. This rare intrafamilial clustering highlights the potential for rapid GAS spread in households.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Group A Streptococcus (GAS) causes serious invasive infections.
- Intrafamilial transmission of invasive GAS is rarely reported, despite increasing incidence.
- Understanding GAS transmission dynamics is crucial for public health.
Observation:
- Two brothers presented with invasive GAS infections within one week.
- The first brother had toxic shock syndrome; the second had confirmed GAS sepsis.
- No identifiable risk factors or entry points for infection were noted in either case.
Findings:
- The cases met the definition of clustered intrafamilial GAS infections.
- This suggests a potential for rapid GAS spread within households.
- The absence of risk factors underscores the unpredictable nature of severe GAS disease.
Implications:
- Highlights the possibility of rapid intrafamilial spread of invasive GAS.
- Emphasizes the need for vigilance regarding GAS infections in close contacts.
- Informs public health strategies for managing GAS outbreaks.
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