Japan Faces Surge in Deadly Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome Cases

Over 1,000 infections and 77 deaths reported in 2024, with health officials seeking explanations for the rise.

STSS is a severe bacterial infection caused by group-A Streptococcus, leading to organ failure and potentially death.
The majority of fatalities have been among individuals over 50 years old.
Symptoms include flu-like signs, low blood pressure, and rapid heart rate, progressing quickly to severe illness.
Treatment involves antibiotics and sometimes surgery to remove infected tissue.
Experts are uncertain about the cause of the sudden increase in cases.