Strep A bacteria outbreak

Streptococcal infections

Streptococcal infections are any type of infection caused by the streptococcus ("strep") group of bacteria.

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Group A strep causes

Strep throat - a sore, red throat. Your tonsils may be swollen and have white spots on them.
Scarlet fever - an illness that follows strep throat. It causes a red rash on the body.
Impetigo - a skin infection
Toxic shock syndrome
Cellulitis and necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating disease)

Group B strep can cause blood infections, pneumonia and meningitis in newborns.

Group A strep (strep A) are often found on the surface of the skin and inside the throat. They are a common cause of infection in adults and children.
They can be spread in droplets in the coughs or sneezes of someone with an infection, or through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated object.
Minor strep A infections
Most infections caused by strep A are unpleasant, but don't pose a serious threat to your health. These include: