State Department of Health, CDC investigate high rates of bacterial infections in West Hawai‘i

The Hawaiʻi Department of Health and Hawaiʻi District Health Office are working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to investigate a report of high rates of a serious bacterial infection being reported in West Hawai‘i.

The investigation into the cases of invasive Group A Streptococcus, or iGAS, began after a local physician identified a higher-than-expected number of patients with the illness over a period of several months and informed the Department of Health, state health officials stated in a news release.

Group A Streptococcus bacteria are commonly found on the skin or in the throat and often do not cause an infection. When infections do occur, they are usually mild illnesses such as strep throat or skin infection.

This investigation will help determine whether the number of people with iGAS is increasing in West Hawaiʻi and better understand possible causes and risk factors of this infection.

At this time, the overall risk to the public is low; however, awareness and early treatment are important to prevent severe iGAS illness.

The goals of this investigation are to confirm whether there is an increase in the number of people with iGAS in West Hawaiʻi, identify risk factors, evaluate disease reporting and better understand how infections may be occurring in the community. Investigators will also compare local trends with other areas of the state and analyze laboratory data to identify any patterns among people with iGAS infections.

While the state Department of Health routinely monitors these infections, historically, Hawaiʻi has had higher rates than the national average, the release stated.

DOH and CDC are working closely with healthcare providers and community partners and will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

In addition, recent viral infections such as influenza or chickenpox can increase one’s risk. The specific causes of the elevated iGAS illnesses in West Hawaiʻi are not yet known, so DOH and CDC are investigating.

Some people are at higher risk for severe illness if exposed to iGAS. These include older adults and individuals with chronic medical conditions such as heart, kidney, or respiratory disease and diabetes.

People with weakened immune systems, those with open wounds or skin infections, and people experiencing homelessness or who inject drugs may also be at increased risk.

In rare cases, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream or other normally sterile parts of the body. Early treatment with antibiotics is effective, especially when care is given promptly.

DOH encourages the public to take simple steps to reduce the risk of infection. Keep cuts and wounds clean and covered until they heal and wash hands regularly with soap and water.

Seek medical care if a wound becomes red, swollen, warm, or produces pus. Anyone experiencing fever, severe pain, or rapidly worsening symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.