Traveling to Japan This Summer: Important Health Information

Are you planning a trip to Japan this summer? It’s essential to be informed about streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) and how to ensure your safety during your stay. Currently, Japan is experiencing an alarming rise in STSS cases, with over 1,019 incidents reported in the first half of 2024, already surpassing last year’s total.

Understanding STSS

What is STSS?

Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome is a severe bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus (GAS) bacteria. These bacteria can be found in the nose, throat, and on the skin, often without causing any problems. However, they can lead to mild to severe illnesses, such as strep throat or impetigo. When these bacteria invade the bloodstream and soft tissues, they can become life-threatening and result in STSS.

Who is at Risk?

STSS infections primarily affect adults aged 65 and older, with the current outbreak in Japan predominantly impacting those over 50. Individuals with open wounds, recent surgeries, or conditions like diabetes and alcohol use are also at a heightened risk for developing STSS.

Symptoms of STSS

Early symptoms of STSS typically emerge one to three days after infection and may include fever, chills, muscle aches, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms can escalate quickly to low blood pressure, a rapid heart rate, and organ failure. Immediate medical attention is crucial, as the CDC estimates that approximately 30% of STSS infections can be fatal.

Preventing STSS Infection

Current Situation in Japan

The reasons behind the recent increase in STSS cases in Japan remain unclear. However, this trend is not isolated to Japan; there has been a global rise in Group A Streptococcus infections following the COVID-19 pandemic. One theory suggests that reduced exposure to various diseases during lockdowns may have weakened public immunity.

How to Protect Yourself

While STSS is rare, awareness and vigilance are key. Recognizing early symptoms and seeking prompt medical care can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Here are some preventive measures:

  • Practice Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing is vital, especially after coughing or sneezing, before and after caring for the sick, and before food preparation or consumption.
  • Wound Care: Keep any wounds clean and monitor them for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or pus. Seek medical attention if an infection is suspected or if you develop a fever.

Currently, there is no vaccine for STSS, but researchers are working towards developing one, potentially available within the next decade. In the meantime, following good hygiene practices can help reduce the risk of infection.

References

1. Risk assessment for increase in streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) in Japan. Available at: NIID (Accessed: 29 July 2024).

2. About streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Available at: CDC (Accessed: 29 July 2024).

3. Streptococcal Disease (group A). Epidemiology. Available at: Virginia Department of Health (Accessed: 29 July 2024).

4. Ghanemi A, Yoshioka M, St-Amand J. Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Crisis: Losing Our Immunity When We Need It the Most. Biology (Basel). 2021;10(6):545. doi:10.3390/biology10060545.

5. Preventing group A strep infection. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Available at: CDC (Accessed: 29 July 2024).

6. Newberger R, Gupta V. Streptococcus Group A. StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: NCBI.