Resurgence of Group A Streptococcal Infections

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) causes considerable burden on the society with its varied disease manifestations than can range from asymptomatic infection to severe invasive disease which can lead to significant mortality. There was a decline in GAS infections over time with improved living conditions all over the world, however, with the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a resurgence in the different types of GAS infections. This recent upsurge in the GAS cases worldwide and the increasing rates of antimicrobial resistance has brought the spotlight back on this organism. Many vaccines are under development, but face multiple challenges that hinder the availability of a safe and effective vaccine for widespread use.