Japan faces alarming surge in flesh-eating bacteria cases

Japan is witnessing an alarming increase in cases of Group A streptococcal infections caused by the notorious "flesh-eating" bacteria, Streptococcus pyogenes. Report informs via Kyodo that, according to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, the number of cases in the first half of this year has already surpassed last year's record.

The bacteria, known for its ability to rapidly destroy tissue, often presents symptoms resembling pharyngitis.

However, it can lead to severe complications such as necrotizing fasciitis, a rare but life-threatening condition that causes the death of soft tissues. In extreme cases, the infection can result in limb amputation and multiple organ failure.

The previous record of 941 cases, set last year, has already been eclipsed, marking the highest number of infections in over two decades.