Transmission of group A Streptococcus in long-term care: An outbreak investigation

Am J Infect Control. 2025 Apr;53(4):530-532. doi: 10.1016/j.ajic.2024.11.008. Epub 2024 Nov 20.

Abstract

We report 2 outbreaks comprising a cluster of 18 group A Streptococcal infections across 2 nursing facilities. Point prevalence surveillance testing identified 8 of 18 cases, and whole genome sequencing validated transmission pathways. Infection prevention interventions at the facility level comprised symptomatic and asymptomatic carriage-based case finding, transmission-based precautions, and treatment to eradicate colonization.

Keywords: Cluster; Gram-positive infection; Infection control; Postacute care; Whole genome sequencing.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Carrier State / epidemiology
  • Carrier State / microbiology
  • Cross Infection* / epidemiology
  • Cross Infection* / microbiology
  • Cross Infection* / transmission
  • Disease Outbreaks*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infection Control / methods
  • Long-Term Care
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nursing Homes
  • Streptococcal Infections* / epidemiology
  • Streptococcal Infections* / microbiology
  • Streptococcal Infections* / transmission
  • Streptococcus pyogenes* / genetics
  • Streptococcus pyogenes* / isolation & purification
  • Whole Genome Sequencing