Streptococcus pyogenes

Streptococcus pyogenes, aka group A streptococcus (GAS), is a round-shaped bacterium (coccus) that likes to line up in chains (strepto). It is often found without symptoms in healthy carriers (in the throat, nose, or on the skin), but make no mistake: S. pyogenes is capable of triggering a wide range of infections, from simple sore throats… to serious illnesses! This formidable microbe is surrounded by a hyaluronic acid capsule that allows it to escape immune defences like an invisible ninja!

Among the common infections :
– Strep throat (the famous bacterial sore throat)
– Scarlet fever (tonsillitis + rash)
– Impetigo (skin infection in children)
– Middle ear infections, sinusitis…

But if it penetrates deeper, it can also cause:
– Septicemia
– Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome
– Post-infectious complications such as: inflammation of the joints, heart, or kidney damage!

And that's not all... This bacteria is infamous for its most terrifying form: necrotizing fasciitis ! A fulminating infection of soft tissues (skin, muscles, fascia) that is nicknamed the "flesh-eating bacteria" disease!
It enters through an injury or surgery, releases destructive toxins, blocks the immune response and ravages tissues at an incredible speed. It is an absolute medical emergency requiring immediate surgery !

Treatment is based on antibiotics (such as penicillin), and prevention is achieved through good hand and wound hygiene. Unfortunately, no vaccine is yet available, but research continues!

If you like ambiguous, opportunistic, and devastating microbes, S. pyogenes is for you! The sticker of this ferociously hungry bacteria is available now in our shop, add it to your collection before it eats you up !

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PUN: Streptococcus, eat flesh!

PUN 2: No need to be a pyo-genius to know that I'm trouble!