Solante: Deadly bacterial infection in Japan already recorded in PH

The Philippines has also recorded cases of the streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), a deadly bacterial infection that is currently rising in Japan, infectious diseases expert Dr. Rontgene Solante said Thursday.

According to Solante, STSS is caused by a common bacteria that causes pharyngitis or inflammation of the pharynx. However, this bacteria could result in a rare and severe complication when spread into the bloodstream.

“Ito’y isang impeksyon na naguumpisa sa balat. ‘Yung mga may sugat tapos papasukan ‘to ng mikrobyo, pupunta sa dugo. ‘Pag pumunta na ‘yan sa dugo, systemic na ‘yan, buong katawan mo… Napaka-bangis nitong bacteria, ‘yung Group A Streptococcus Pyogenes,” he said in a Super Radyo dzBB interview.

(This is an infection that starts in the skin. The bacteria would usually enter the blood through a wound. Once it goes into the blood, it's systemic, your whole body is already affected. The Group A Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria is dangerous.)

Solante noted that STSS has a high mortality rate of 30%, meaning an infected person could die within 24 hours after symptoms start to show.

Among its symptoms are fever, body pain, feeling weak, vomiting, and darkening of the wound, which could eventually lead to low blood pressure and difficulty in breathing.

The STSS also commonly affects those with weak immune systems, including the elderly population, and even those with diabetes and chronic renal failure.

“Napakabilis ang kalat nito doon sa katawan na taong involved—ma-involve ‘yung puso, ma-involve ‘yung atay, ma-involve ‘yung lungs. So multi organ system and involvement nito,” Solante added.

(It spreads very quickly in the body of the person infected. It affects the heart, liver, and lungs. It affects multiple organs.)

Based on clinical experience, Solante said that several cases of STSS have been detected in the Philippines. In Japan, he said cases have already soared to 900 to 1,000.

“Meron na rin tayong nakikita dito sa Pilipinas. Pakunti kunti lang pero mabilis talaga ‘yan,” he said.

(We have seen that in the Philippines. It’s only a few cases, but it spreads fast.)

He thus advised the vulnerable population to wear face masks and to wash their wounds thoroughly. Those who experience symptoms should also immediately consult a doctor for proper treatment. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News