An Outbreak of Group A Streptococcal Infection among Health Care Workers

Open Access
Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
We describe the nosocomial transmission of group A Streptococcus species (GAS) from a single source patient to 24 health care workers (HCWs). DNA typing revealed that all of the isolates were identical to that of the source patient. The isolates were M type 1, positive for production of nicotine adenine dinucleotidase, and negative for opacity factor, all of which are factors reported to have a higher correlation with invasive disease. The 24 HCWs developed symptoms of pharyngitis ⩽4 days after exposure to the source patient. Nosocomial transmission occurred ⩽25 h after exposure to the source patient, before the institution of outbreak-control measures. A questionnaire was distributed to HCWs to help identify the factors responsible for the high attack rate among those who were exposed. Invasive GAS disease in a nosocomial setting can be highly transmissible. Rapid identification, early treatment, and adherence to infection-control practices may prevent or control outbreaks of infection.