An invasive group A streptococcal infection outbreak: a community nursing experience

Abstract

Invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) can cause serious infections. Between January and July 2018, seven patients, living in the same geographical area and receiving district nursing care for wound management, were identified with iGAS. Further microbiological analysis of the cases identified the iGAS cases were the same type, emm 94. This was an unusual strain and suggested there was likely transmission via staff and contaminated equipment. Outbreak measures were implemented, including staff screening followed by commencement of chemoprophylaxis without waiting for results. No staff were identified as positive and no further cases identified. This outbreak report discusses the implementation of mass staff screening and the prompt commencement of chemoprophylaxis. This approach enabled staff to continue providing services and was an effective approach to managing outbreaks of this nature in a community setting. However, effective implementation requires early engagement from stakeholders to ensure clear communication and rationale is provided for staff.