Doctors across the United States are reporting a rise in cases of invasive group A strep throat, a more severe strain of the common bacteria that can quickly turn deadly if left untreated. Mark Dougherty, an infectious disease doctor with Baptist Health, recommends that individuals who experience symptoms such as a fever and a sore throat that feels like "swallowing glass" should get tested for the bacteria.
While the bacteria is highly treatable, it can become uncontrolled and aggressive if not caught early. Baptist Health is currently seeing four times as many cases of invasive strep compared to pre-pandemic levels. The CDC has also warned about elevated cases of strep infections, with a record number of infections reported in children in 2022. Invasive strep can lead to around 1500 to 2300 deaths in the U.S. every year, and the longer it's left untreated, the more dangerous it becomes.
Symptoms such as inflammation of soft tissue and shaking chills can be a sign that the bacteria has entered the bloodstream, which can eventually lead to amputation. It's essential to seek medical attention if experiencing severe sore throat symptoms or if noticing inflammation and swelling in the arms or legs associated with fevers or shaking chills.