Is strep airborne
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Is Strep Airborne?
Introduction to Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep A)
Streptococcus pyogenes, commonly known as group A Streptococcus (Strep A), is a significant human pathogen responsible for various illnesses, ranging from mild infections to severe diseases. Understanding its transmission mechanisms is crucial for developing effective control measures.
Primary Transmission via Respiratory Droplets
Strep A is primarily transmitted between individuals through respiratory droplets. This mode of transmission occurs when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing droplets that can be inhaled by others nearby1. This well-established route underscores the importance of maintaining good respiratory hygiene and physical distancing to prevent the spread of Strep A.
Potential Airborne Transmission
While respiratory droplets are the main transmission route, there is ongoing research to explore the potential for airborne transmission of Strep A. Airborne transmission involves smaller particles that can remain suspended in the air for extended periods and travel longer distances than respiratory droplets. Studies have utilized various methods to capture and analyze airborne bacteria, including selective agar settle plates and slit-samplers, to detect the presence of Strep A in the air1 2.
Environmental Presence and Transmission
In addition to airborne transmission, Strep A can also be found on surfaces within the environment. Research has shown that Strep A can be detected on both personal and common high-touch items, suggesting that surface contamination could play a role in its transmission. Environmental swabbing and analysis of these surfaces help in understanding the extent of environmental contamination and its potential contribution to the spread of Strep A1.
Conclusion
Strep A is primarily spread through respiratory droplets, but there is evidence to suggest that airborne transmission and environmental contamination may also contribute to its spread. Ongoing research aims to further elucidate these transmission pathways to inform better prevention and control strategies. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for reducing the global burden of diseases caused by Strep A.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Searching for Strep A in the clinical environment during a human challenge trial: a sub-study protocol
This study aims to assess the transmission potential of Strep A in a clinical environment using various methods, including droplet and aerosol spread, to better understand its spread and design optimal interventions to control transmission in endemic settings.
Non-RCTThe detection of streptococci in air
The method used to estimate streptococcal counts in air missed 20-40% of viable streptococci, with the standard error being 14% of the mean.
Modes of transmission and attack rates of group A Streptococcal infection: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
This review aims to elucidate the modes of transmission and attack rates of group A streptococcal infection in humans, informing prevention and control strategies.
Meta-Analysis
Very Rigorous JournalAntibiotic-resistant streptococci in the mouths of children treated with penicillin.
Children treated with penicillin in hospital often acquire antibiotic-resistant streptococci in their mouths, potentially affecting standardised endocarditis chemoprophylaxis regimens.
Observational StudyDetection of Streptococcus suis in Bioaerosols of Swine Confinement Buildings
Streptococcus suis serotypes 2 and 1/2 are found in the air of swine confinement buildings, with up to 13% of intact bacteria in the air and significant exposure to healthy workers.
Observational StudyStreptococcus pyogenes adhesion and colonization
Streptococcus pyogenes infection in humans is primarily driven by adhesion and colonization processes, relying on various virulence factors and strict transcriptional regulation.
Highly CitedSafety and immunogenicity of a 30-valent M protein-based group a streptococcal vaccine in healthy adult volunteers: A randomized, controlled phase I study.
The 30-valent M protein-based streptococcal vaccine was well-tolerated and immunogenic in healthy adults, supporting further clinical development.
RCT
Rigorous JournalTransmission of group A streptococci: III. The effect of drying on the infectivity of the organism for man
Drying of group A streptococci in air reduces its infectivity for human respiratory infection, suggesting that contaminated dust particles serve as an important reservoir for respiratory infection.
The Neglected Contribution of Streptomycin to the Tuberculosis Drug Resistance Problem
Streptomycin resistance contributes significantly to the tuberculosis drug resistance problem, with high prevalence and potential role in multi-drug resistant strains.
Rigorous JournalExisting cost-effectiveness analyses for diseases caused by Group A Streptococcus: A systematic review to guide future research
Future research on Strep A diseases is needed to address missing clinical outcomes, imbalanced study locations by income group, and the transmission dynamics of selected diseases.
Systematic ReviewRigorous Journal