Are We At Risk Of Another Pandemic?

Collaborating with Manitoba Health, the state of Manitoba has discovered a rise in two invasive diseases that have the potential to be lethal and that are comparable to viral infections like influenza and COVID-19 (pandemic of 2020)

 

Invasive group A streptococcal infections (iGAS) and invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) are the two pathologies.

 

According to the province, although “severe infections from IMD and iGAS are exceedingly rare,” they are more common when viruses like the flu are widespread.

 

SYMPTOMS TO CONSIDER; IMD

IT CAN LOOK LIKE meningitis or can mimic septicemia/sepsis. Some other indications are

• a dark purple rash
• high fever
• severe headache
• stiff neck
• upset stomach
• severe aches or pains
• weakness
• drowsiness
• sensitivity to light

 

Complications of invasive IMD; (To Avoid Pandemic We Should Be Precautionary)

 It can lead to amputations in 10% of the cases, leaving the victim disabled for life and even causing death.

  

It stated that prompt treatment is required, including the use of antibiotics and other symptom-dependent care.

 

The bacteria is transferred via saliva and airborne droplets, usually through close or extended contact.

 

The ministry stated that the majority of Manitobans have had vaccinations against the illness, but it still advises seeking advice from a medical professional regarding immunization eligibility.

 

IGAS INFECTIONS: 

Although there aren’t any clusters or outbreaks of iGAS at the moment, the province said that there seems to be an increase since the epidemic.

 

According to the announcement, there were 200 verified instances reported in 2023 as opposed to 150 in 2022.

 

According to Manitoba, strep throat and other common diseases are caused by iGAS bacteria, which are typically present on the skin and in the throat.

It did, however, note that the infection can be serious and, in the worst case, lethal. When germs enter areas of the body where they shouldn’t, such as blood, deep muscles, fatty tissue, or the respiratory system, the infection can be fatal, according to Manitoba.

 

According to the government, “swift treatment including adequate antibacterial therapy” is necessary when iGAS is severe.

 

SYMPTOMS OF IGAS ;

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• A bruise or skin infection may become red, warm, or very painful, including pain beyond the area that is affected
• LIKELYHOOD of the rash being present is expected.

Additional Details

Manitoba advised seeking emergency medical attention if their symptoms get worse or if they become extremely sick.

 

The province advised being vaccinated against various viral infections like the flu, COVID-19, and pneumococcal disease to guard against contracting illnesses and infections like IMD and iGAS.

 

Additionally, it stated that Public Health updated medical professionals about IMD and iGAS infections.