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Group A streptococcal bacteraemias in Denmark 1987-89
1Department of Epidemiology, Statens Seruminstitut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
The Journal of Infection
|July 1, 1995
Summary
Group A Streptococcal bacteraemia cases surged in Denmark, particularly among healthy individuals infected with type 1 strains. High lethality underscores the need for rapid diagnosis and effective surveillance systems.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Group A Streptococcal (GAS) bacteraemia incidence increased significantly in Denmark during 1988-1989.
- This rise prompted an investigation into the epidemiology and characteristics of GAS infections during this period.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the epidemiology of Group A Streptococcal bacteraemia in Denmark from 1987-1989.
- To compare outbreak period cases with baseline risk periods.
- To analyze risk factors, sources of infection, and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of laboratory-verified cases of GAS bacteraemia.
- Data collected from hospital records for 242 cases in 240 patients.
- Analysis included patient health history, infection source (community-acquired vs. nosocomial), and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Total incidence of GAS bacteraemia tripled during the epidemic period.
- The proportion of type 1 GAS increased from 20% to 50%.
- Cases among previously healthy individuals infected with type 1 GAS rose 25-fold, with a 48% lethality rate during the epidemic.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights a dramatic increase in GAS bacteraemia, especially type 1 infections in previously healthy individuals.
- Community-acquired infections showed a higher relative increase than nosocomial infections.
- Timely surveillance, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment are critical for mitigating severe outcomes and reducing mortality.