“Killer bacteria” infection: Minsal details the warning signs for which you should seek medical attention

During this Wednesday, the Ministry of Health (Minsal) confirmed that some of the deaths from influenza in the Ñuble region are associated with the presence of Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as “killer bacteria”.

The Undersecretary of Assistance Networks, Osvaldo Salgadoreported in dialogue with Radio Duna, that an alert had previously been issued for this bacteria, since aggravates conditions of flu patients.

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“It is something that is happening in many parts of the world, in England, it happened in Denmark, it happened in other countries (…) it seems that Covid produced a very important change in the behavior of certain microorganisms,” said Salgado.

What are the warning signs of Streptococcus pyogenes infection?

According to what was reported by the Minsal, Streptococcus pyogenes is a bacteria that can cause a wide spectrum of diseases, from acute pharyngitis or skin lesions, to serious and life-threatening infections. The most affected groups are preschool children, schoolchildren and older adults.

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The Minister of Health, Ximena Aguileraused his early”.

Likewise, he detailed which are the signs that require evaluation by a specialist:

• High fever
• Decay
• Intense pain in the throat or skin
• Headache
• skin lesions

Among the most common symptoms of tonsillitis or pharyngitis are high fever and intense pain in the throat. Superficial skin infections occur around the nose and mouth, with lesions such as blisters, yellowish scabs, red skin, pain or itching in the area.

It is mainly transmitted through respiratory droplets and direct contact with infected people and surfaces, Therefore, it is important to take preventive measures such as the following:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before preparing or eating food, after coughing or sneezing, and after using the bathroom.
• Clean and ventilate all rooms daily.
• Maintain rest if there are symptoms. Do not attend work or school while the discomfort lasts.
• Do not self-medicate.
• Cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow or into a disposable tissue to avoid infecting other people.

Is there a vaccine for Streptococcus pyogenes?

The answer is no, There is no vaccine for Streptococcus pyogenes. However, it is essential to have up-to-date vaccines, such as influenza, to avoid other diseases that favor invasion by this bacteria.

The treatment consists of ingesting antibiotics, which must be prescribed by a doctor. The instructions must be followed to the letter, in order to avoid relapses and complications.