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An outbreak of genomically clustered group A Streptococcus in a school community, Victoria, 2023

  • 0North Eastern Public Health Unit, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Acton, ACT, Australia.
Communicable Diseases Intelligence (2018) +

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December 16, 2025

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December 16, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

An invasive group A Streptococcus (GAS) outbreak in an Australian school showed a 29% attack rate. This investigation highlights GAS transmissibility and varied clinical presentations in a school setting.

Area Of Science

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology
  • Microbiology

Background

  • Global increase in invasive group A streptococcal disease (GAS) in 2023.
  • GAS outbreaks pose significant public health risks, particularly in school environments.
  • The North Eastern Public Health Unit (NEPHU) in Victoria, Australia, observed a rise in GAS cases.

Purpose Of The Study

  • Investigate a GAS outbreak in a Victorian school to describe its epidemiology.
  • Identify risk factors associated with severe GAS disease.
  • Implement effective control measures to limit further transmission.

Main Methods

  • Defined confirmed and probable GAS cases based on laboratory, clinical, and epidemiological criteria.
  • Collected absentee data and administered an online survey to identify potential contacts and symptoms.
  • Performed genomic sequencing on GAS isolates to analyze transmission patterns.

Main Results

  • Identified 11 GAS cases (29% attack rate) among 38 students between July 24 and August 27, 2023.
  • The index case presented with severe invasive GAS infection; common symptoms included sore throat and scarlet fever.
  • Genomic analysis revealed isolates were emm1 type, with clustering indicating localized transmission within the school.

Conclusions

  • The school outbreak demonstrated the transmissibility of group A Streptococcus.
  • GAS infections in schools can manifest with diverse clinical symptoms.
  • Prompt epidemiological investigation and control measures are crucial for managing GAS outbreaks.

Keywords:

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