Unexpected Increase in Invasive Group a Streptococcal Infections in Children After Respiratory Viruses Outbreak in France: A 15-Year Time-Series Analysis

Since October 2022, an increase in invasive Group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections has been reported. In this 15-year study we showed that this increase was concomitant with intense respiratory viruses' outbreak. Physicians should be aware of this increased risk of pediatric iGAS infections. In a 15-year pediatric time-series analysis, we showed a rise of invasive Group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections since October 2022, mainly involving pleural empyema, simultaneously to a respiratory virus outbreak. Physicians should be aware of this increased risk of pediatric iGAS infections, especially in settings with intense respiratory viruses' circulation.

Automated summary

Since October 2022, there has been an increase in invasive Group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections, which coincided with a respiratory virus outbreak. Physicians need to be aware of the heightened risk of pediatric iGAS infections.