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Outbreak of group A Streptococcus emm94.0 affecting people who inject drugs in southwest England, April 2017
Rachel M Kwiatkowska1, Petra Manley1, Ben Sims2
1Field Epidemiology Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Bristol, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
We report an outbreak of invasive and noninvasive group A Streptococcus during April 2017 among people who inject drugs in southwest England. To date we have identified 14 cases linked to a specific town, all confirmed as group A Streptococcus emm94.0, a strain type not previously reported in the area. We have yet to identify a source for this ongoing outbreak. Actions described here may help reduce the burden of infection in vulnerable populations.
Insights
An outbreak of invasive group A Streptococcus (GAS) occurred in southwest England in April 2017, affecting people who inject drugs. The outbreak involves a novel emm94.0 strain, with 14 cases identified so far.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Group A Streptococcus (GAS) can cause invasive infections.
- Outbreaks in specific populations require targeted surveillance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an outbreak of invasive and noninvasive GAS.
- To characterize the specific strain involved.
- To inform public health interventions.
Main Methods:
- Case identification and confirmation of GAS.
- Molecular typing (emm typing) of identified strains.
- Epidemiological investigation to identify potential sources.
Main Results:
- 14 cases of GAS infection identified in southwest England.
- All cases confirmed as emm94.0 strain type.
- This strain type was previously unreported in the region.
Conclusions:
- An ongoing outbreak of a novel GAS strain (emm94.0) is occurring.
- People who inject drugs are a vulnerable population affected by this outbreak.
- Further investigation is needed to identify the source and implement control measures.