An outbreak of group A Streptococcal infection among health care workers

Clin Infect Dis. 2002 Dec 1;35(11):1353-9. doi: 10.1086/344279. Epub 2002 Nov 11.

Abstract

We describe the nosocomial transmission of group A Streptococcus species (GAS) from a single source patient to 24 health care workers (HCWs). DNA typing revealed that all of the isolates were identical to that of the source patient. The isolates were M type 1, positive for production of nicotine adenine dinucleotidase, and negative for opacity factor, all of which are factors reported to have a higher correlation with invasive disease. The 24 HCWs developed symptoms of pharyngitis < or =4 days after exposure to the source patient. Nosocomial transmission occurred < or =25 h after exposure to the source patient, before the institution of outbreak-control measures. A questionnaire was distributed to HCWs to help identify the factors responsible for the high attack rate among those who were exposed. Invasive GAS disease in a nosocomial setting can be highly transmissible. Rapid identification, early treatment, and adherence to infection-control practices may prevent or control outbreaks of infection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Disease Outbreaks*
  • Female
  • Health Personnel
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Streptococcal Infections / drug therapy
  • Streptococcal Infections / epidemiology*
  • Streptococcal Infections / microbiology
  • Streptococcus pyogenes* / genetics
  • Streptococcus pyogenes* / isolation & purification
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents