Recent Changes in the Epidemiology of Group A Streptococcus Infections: Observations and Implications
Susanna Esposito, Marco Masetti, Carolina Calanca, Nicolò Canducci, Sonia Rasmi, Alessandra Fradusco, Nicola Principi
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, GAS) is a major human pathogen capable of causing infections ranging from mild pharyngitis and impetigo to severe invasive diseases such as bacteremia, necrotizing fasciitis, and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS). Historically, the incidence of GAS infections declined during the early antibiotic era but began rising again from the early 2000s, driven partly by the emergence of hyper-virulent strains such as emm1 and emm12. From 2005 onward, significant increases in GAS infections were reported globally, accompanied by rising antibiotic resistance, particularly to macrolides and tetracyclines. During the COVID-19 pandemic, widespread public health measures led to a sharp decline in GAS infections, including invasive cases, but this trend reversed dramatically in late 2022 and 2023, with surges exceeding pre-pandemic levels, notably in children. Recent data implicate factors such as “immunity debt,” viral co-infections, and the spread of virulent clones like M1UK. Looking forward, continued surveillance of GAS epidemiology, virulence factors, and resistance patterns is critical. Moreover, the emergence of GAS isolates with reduced susceptibility to beta-lactams underscores the need for vigilance despite the absence of fully resistant strains. The development of an effective vaccine remains an urgent priority to reduce GAS disease burden and prevent severe outcomes. Future research should focus on vaccine development, molecular mechanisms of virulence, and strategies to curb antimicrobial resistance.