Risk Factors for Group A Streptococcus Colonization During an Outbreak Among People Experiencing Homelessness in Anchorage, Alaska, 2017

Clin Infect Dis. 2018 Nov 13;67(11):1784-1787. doi: 10.1093/cid/ciy429.

Abstract

We identified risk factors for any emm type group A streptococcal (GAS) colonization while investigating an invasive emm26.3 GAS outbreak among people experiencing homelessness in Alaska. Risk factors included upper extremity skin breakdown, sleeping outdoors, sharing blankets, and infrequent tooth brushing. Our results may help guide control efforts in future outbreaks.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Alaska / epidemiology
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Azithromycin / therapeutic use
  • Disease Outbreaks*
  • Female
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Ill-Housed Persons*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Risk Factors
  • Skin / microbiology
  • Skin / pathology
  • Streptococcal Infections / drug therapy
  • Streptococcal Infections / epidemiology*
  • Streptococcus pyogenes*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Azithromycin