Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia
Advertisement

Antibiotic Resistance Triggering the Re-Emergence of Scarlet Fever After Dormancy

by Reshma Anand on November 5, 2015 at 6:27 PM
Antibiotic Resistance Triggering the Re-Emergence of Scarlet Fever After Dormancy

A childhood disease may be making a comeback after 100 years due to increasing resistance to antibiotics, reveals a new study.

According to the Center for Disease Control, Scarlet fever is caused by a Group A Streptococcus (GAS) bacteria that mainly affects children under 10 years of age. Red rash on the skin, sore throat, fever headache and nausea are the main symptoms of scarlet fever. Serious illness can usually be treated with antibiotics.

Advertisement


"We have not yet had an outbreak in Australia, but over the past five years there have been more than 5,000 cases in Hong Kong (a 10-fold increase) and more than 100,000 cases in China and an outbreak in the UK has resulted in 12,000 cases since last year," said Mark Walker, one of the researchers.

Australian scientists have performed genomic sequencing on isolates of 34 GAS strains from Hong Kong and mainland China to investigate genetic changes in the strains, finding several that have led to some drug resistance.
Advertisement

"We now have a situation which may change the nature of the disease and make it resistant to broad-spectrum treatments normally prescribed for respiratory tract infections, such as scarlet fever," said Nouri Ben Zakour, one of the researchers.

Scarlet fever can lead to several complications like rheumatic heart disease, arthritis and ear infections. Therefore, it's important to swiftly identify scarlet fever-associated bacteria and antibiotic resistant elements to track the spread of scarlet fever. The findings were published in the journal Scientific Reports.

Source: Medindia
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Respiratory Disease News

China Pneumonia Outbreak Not Linked to New Virus
The ongoing pneumonia outbreak impacting young children in China is not linked to a newly identified virus.
Pneumonia Vaccine Found Effective in Macaques
A recently developed pneumococcal vaccination was proven to be successful in the trials involving macaque monkeys.
AI-aided Home Stethoscope Monitors Asthma
Using the auscultatory sounds of asthmatic kids under age five, StethoMe, an AI-based home stethoscope, was able to accurately diagnose asthma exacerbation.
Indian Doctors Urge Heightened Surveillance Amid China's Pneumonia Cases
Given the recent series of pneumonia cases in China, Indian doctors are recommending increased vigilance and enhanced hygiene practices.
Cancer Treatment Holds Hope in Combating Tuberculosis
An emerging cancer therapy demonstrates exceptional effectiveness in combating tuberculosis (TB), an immensely destructive infectious illness.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
×

Antibiotic Resistance Triggering the Re-Emergence of Scarlet Fever After Dormancy Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests