Among the 1542 invasive GAS strains studied, 78% (n=1206) were from blood cultures, and a streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) was described in 22% (n=340) of cases, mainly associated with necrotizing fasciitis (NF) and pleuro-pulmonary infections (p<0.001).The in-hospital fatality rate was 15%.
Our findings indicate a considerable burden of both iGAS and iGCS/GGS disease and a high frequency of necrotizing fasciitis caused by GAS in our community.