ARCHIVED - 1.0 Introduction

Before the introduction of antimicrobials, morbidity from Streptococcus pyogenes or group A streptococcal (GAS) infection was common. The introduction of penicillin and other antibiotics resulted in a steady decline in the incidence of GAS disease through the 1970s. However, in the 1980s, there was a worldwide resurgence of GAS infection, as well as an apparent increase in virulence^1-6.

Because of the severity of invasive GAS disease and the increased risk of infection among close contacts of sporadic cases, these guidelines have been formulated through a consensus process to advise public health officials and clinicians about the public health management of invasive GAS cases and their close contacts. Participants involved in the consensus process are listed in Annex 1.