Health authorities in British Columbia are warning the public about higher levels of strep bacterial infections among children. A doctor wears a lab coat and stethoscope in an exam room at a health clinic in Calgary, on Friday, July 14, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh.
Health authorities in British Columbia are warning the public about an increase in strep bacterial infections, particularly among children. A collaborative statement from the Provincial Health Services Authority, the BC Centre for Disease Control, and BC Children's Hospital reveals 51 cases of group A streptococcal infections in individuals under 20 this year.
This figure is more than double the anticipated number by health officials, exceeding last year's count of 20 cases.
Strep bacteria, known for causing ailments like strep throat and skin infections such as impetigo, can typically be treated with antibiotics. However, in some cases, infections may escalate, posing life-threatening risks in the form of pneumonia or toxic shock.
Caregivers are urged to closely monitor children exhibiting symptoms like prolonged fever, for more than a week, persistent full-body rashes, and breathing difficulties, this could indicate an infection lasting beyond five days.
The statement highlights a nationwide and global surge in strep infections, with British Columbia alone reporting 547 cases this year across all age groups.
