As Japan sees a surge of international tourists during the summer holiday season, health officials are dealing with an outbreak of infections caused by what’s commonly known as “flesh-eating bacteria.” On the program “Health 1+1,” Xiaoxu Sean Lin, an American virology expert and microbiologist, discussed the symptoms, characteristics, and prevention methods for these types of infections. Fever and chills Muscle aches Nausea and vomiting Low blood pressure Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) Tachypnea (rapid breathing) Organ failure: Kidney failure may present as an inability to urinate, while liver failure can cause significant bleeding or bruising, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
While antibiotics are the first line of defense, they are often insufficient on their own, and emergency surgery is required to remove necrotic tissue, according to Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare. There is currently no vaccine available to effectively prevent group A streptococcal infections. Group A streptococcus is typically transmitted through respiratory droplets or direct contact with infected wounds, Lin said.
Maintain good hygiene : Wear masks and wash your hands frequently. Prioritize health : Get enough rest, eat a balanced diet, and strengthen your immune system. Protect open wounds : Avoid swimming in beaches or pools if you have skin wounds.
Handle seafood safely : Consume only well-cooked seafood and wear gloves when handling shellfish to prevent cuts and reduce the risk of infection..
