Q&A
Chances of getting disease fairly rare
| • | Flesh-eating bacteria not threat to public health |
Advertiser Staff
Q. What is the "flesh-eating bacteria"?
A. In all six recent Maui cases, necrotizing fasciitis — commonly called the "flesh-eating bacteria" — was caused by the Group A streptococcus bacterium that is often found in the throat and on the skin. People may carry the bacterium and have no symptoms of illness, or may suffer relatively mild illnesses such as "strep throat" or impetigo. On rare occasions, these bacteria can cause life-threatening diseases, including necrotizing fasciitis, which destroys muscles, fat and skin tissue. An assortment of other bacteria also can cause necrotizing fasciitis.
Q. How is it spread?
A. The Group A streptococcus bacteria are spread through direct contact with mucus from the nose or throat of those who are infected or through contact with infected wounds or sores. It is not likely that household items spread the bacteria.
Q. How common is necrotizing fasciitis?
A. Your chances of getting the "flesh-eating bacteria" are very rare. In 1999, there were only 600 cases in the United States. In contrast, there are several million cases of strep throat and impetigo each year.
Q. What are the early signs and symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis?
A. Fever and severe pain, swelling and redness at the wound site.
Q. How is the disease treated?
A. Early treatment with antibiotics may reduce the risk of death. Surgery often is required to remove damaged tissue. About 20 percent of those suffering from necrotizing fasciitis die.
Q. What can be done to help prevent necrotizing fasciitis?
A. The spread of all types of Group A streptococcus infection can be reduced by good hand washing, especially after coughing and sneezing and before preparing foods or eating. Those with sore throats should be seen by a doctor to determine whether the illness is strep throat. All wounds should be kept clean and watched for possible signs of infection. Anyone with signs of an infected wound, especially if fever occurs, should seek medical care.
— Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
