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A potentially fatal bacterial infection is mysteriously spreading across Japan at an alarming rate - with cases rising from 200 to more than 900 in the past year. Medics are unsure why streptococcal toxic shock syndrome cases are spreading around the country with 45 of the 47 prefectures (counties) affected. Those infected with the rare illness have a 30 per cent chance of death and with 378 cases already recorded in 2024, the total is set to be even higher this year. This is what we know about the infection and its linked illnesses. (PA) Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome is a rare but life-threatening condition caused by an infection, the NHS states. The infection can come on quickly and symptoms can include a high temperature, muscle aches, a raised skin rash that feels like sandpaper and flu-like symptoms. The NHS states that young people are often more susceptible to the illness, although anyone could potentially catch it. You should call 999 or go to A&E if your baby or child has: blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue - on brown or black skin; a rash that does not fade - like meningitis; difficulty breathing; a weak or high pitched cry; being sleepy or unresponsive. (PA) Group B strep, as it is known, affects mostly women and babies. It usually shows up in the rectum or vagina and is usually harmless. The NHS states there's a small risk it could spread to your baby during labour and make them ill - this happens in about 1 in 1,750 pregnancies. Most babies with a group B strep infection make a full recovery if treated. Also known as scarlet fever, this is an infectious bacterial illness. Scarlet fever mainly affects children under the age of 10 and in particular those between two and eight. However, it can affect people of all ages. Common symptoms include a sore throat, fever, and rash while you might also have a headache, chills and nausea. Then, about 12 to 48 hours after the fever starts, a skin rash will appear, first on the neck and then on the body. The rash will make the skin feel rough like sandpaper and will consist of pimples that are small, raised, and reddish in colour. From there you might get further symptoms such as 'strawberry tongue' - where it will be white but with red spots and then red and shiny. It all lasts for a few days. The fever can be treated with antibiotics and can be fatal but only in extremely rare cases. Your GP can be contacted for advice while Strep A can be prevented by good general hygiene.What is the most common cause of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome?
What are the symptoms of streptococcal sepsis?
What is Strep A?