The Northwestern Health Unit says there’s been an increase in a couple of bacterial infections in Manitoba.
It points out that increases the risk here in northwestern Ontario due to frequent travel between our two regions.
The infections are Invasive Meningococcal Disease or IMD, and Invasive Group A Streptococcal or iGAS.
The Health Unit urges the public to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the ailments and make sure they are up to date with eligible vaccinations.
IMD is a serious bacterial infection that spreads through respiratory droplets and saliva, through close prolonged contact.
About 10% of people who carry the bacteria that cause IMD do not get sick but can still spread it to others.
Symptoms can include high fever, stiff neck, severe headache, drowsiness or confusion, sensitivity to light, severe aches and pains, nausea and vomiting, limb or joint pain and/or a dark purple rash.
IMD can cause long term neurological impacts, amputation, and death.
Group A Streptococci are bacteria regularly found in the throat and skin.
Most infections caused by these bacteria are mild and include illnesses such as strep throat and impetigo.
However, iGAS disease can cause severe outcomes such as necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating disease) streptococcal toxic shock syndrome and even death.
IGAS can cause a wide range of symptoms such as feeling unwell, fevered, or severe pain in an area of their body.
With iGAS, an infection can increase in size and pain rapidly. Other symptoms can include a rash, stiff neck and headache, or confusion and low blood pressure.
For both diseases, the NWHU says early and quick treatment with antibiotics is important.
