The Ontario Group A Streptococcal (GAS) Study

Population based surveillance for invasive group A streptococcal disease in Ontario (population 11.4 million).

Goals:

• To provide information on epidemiological trends in group A streptococcal disease
• To study pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

Surveillance Methods:

• All sterile site isolates of group A streptococci are reported to the study office by the identifying laboratory
• Clinical information, epidemiologic data and isolates are collected and analyzed.
• Blood samples are collected on a subset of cases for studies of superantigens and the effect of IVIG on cytokine response (See eligibility criteria and blood collection protocol for immunology studies).

Data are used locally and internationally to form public health policy, clinical management decisions, and to define future research initiatives.

Group A Strep data currently available:

• Cases of invasive group A strep
• Cases of STSS
• Cases of necrotizing fasciitis ('flesh-eating disease')

Group A Strep Resources:

• FAQ: Group A Streptococcal Disease
• FAQ: Group A Streptococcus Study
• Protocols/Recommendations/Guidelines
• Clinical information and consent forms
• Selected Publications/Presentated Papers
• Investigators, Collaborators and Participants

News and Events

• Varicella infection (chickenpox) put children at risk for invasive group A strep infection
• Local NF survivor starts national fundraising campaign to raise monies for research and education
• Immunoglobulin therapy reduces mortality from STSS

General Interest

• Chickenpox and Group A Strep Infections
• Serious Group A Strep Infections