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Group A Streptococcus Infections in Children: Epidemiological Insights Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

Eleni Karapati1, Andreas G Tsantes2, Zoi Iliodromiti1

  • 1Neonatal Department, Aretaieio Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 27, 2024
PubMed

Insights

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections in children. After pandemic restrictions eased, a global rise in invasive GAS infections, particularly in young children, was observed.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Group A Streptococcus (GAS) causes significant human morbidity and mortality.
  • Droplet transmission of GAS is common, making it susceptible to infection mitigation strategies (IMS).
  • The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent IMS influenced GAS infection dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of GAS infections in children.
  • To analyze trends in both invasive and non-invasive GAS infections in pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies examining GAS infection incidence.
  • Analysis of GAS infection trends in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic and IMS.
  • Identification of dominant GAS lineages and clinical manifestations.

Main Results:

  • A notable surge in invasive GAS infections occurred in December 2022 post-IMS reversal.
  • A global increase in GAS infections (invasive and non-invasive) was observed in children, especially those under 5.
  • Complicated pneumonia was the primary clinical manifestation, leading to significant mortality.
  • The *emm1* lineage, specifically M1UK, emerged as dominant in Europe and associated with invasive disease.

Conclusions:

  • Healthcare professionals must recognize the severity of GAS infections in children.
  • Early identification and prompt treatment are crucial for managing GAS-related complications.
  • The pandemic's effects on GAS epidemiology warrant continued surveillance and awareness.

Keywords:
COVID-19GASSARS-CoV-2childreninfectionstreptococcus group A

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