Ulsan City Strengthens Measures to Block Influx of 'Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome' with 21.7% Fatality Rate

Increase in Patients in Japan Since Last Year

Comprehensive Surveillance of Scarlet Fever Caused by the Same Pathogen

Ulsan City has recently begun intensive monitoring to block the influx of Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS), which is currently spreading in Japan.

The number of STSS patients decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic but increased to 941 in 2023.

Japan has reported a higher incidence rate than usual, with a total of 414 cases occurring by the end of February this year.

Among the 414 cases, 90 patients died, showing a fatality rate of 21.7%. In particular, those aged 50 and older have a fatality rate of 24%, requiring special caution.

To prevent the influx into the region, Ulsan City started strengthening full-scale surveillance of scarlet fever (Group A Streptococcus), which is caused by the same bacteria as STSS, targeting local medical institutions from March 22.

Although the incidence rate of scarlet fever in Korea has been declining since 2020, continuous increases in travelers to Japan and the relaxation of quarantine vigilance have led to the implementation of intensive monitoring.

An official from Ulsan City stated, “Overseas travelers are advised to follow infection prevention guidelines such as handwashing and cough etiquette rather than excessive anxiety, and to seek prompt medical care if symptoms occur after traveling abroad.”

STSS is transmitted through contact with mucous membranes or wounds or via respiratory droplets. Initially, it mainly presents mild respiratory symptoms similar to influenza, but if it progresses to a severe stage, it can lead to organ failure, necrosis, and septic shock.

For the elderly aged 65 and over, those exposed to wounds such as from surgery, and diabetic patients, it is important to visit medical institutions promptly for early diagnosis and treatment if suspicious symptoms such as high fever, rash, low blood pressure, muscle pain, redness, or swelling at wound sites occur.

Ulsan City Hall.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.