Streptococcus, Group A, Invasive

• High fever and chills
• Severe, rapidly worsening pain in a specific area (often out of proportion to visible signs)
• Redness, swelling, or warmth at the site of infection
• Flu-like symptoms such as muscle aches and fatigue
• Rapidly decreasing blood pressure (hypotension)
• Organ failure (in severe cases like Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome - STSS)
• Nausea and vomiting

iGAS itself is not directly transmitted; rather, the underlying *Streptococcus pyogenes* bacteria commonly spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets (from coughing or sneezing) or direct contact with infected skin lesions. Invasive disease typically occurs when these bacteria, often already present on a person's skin or in their throat, find a way to enter normally sterile body sites through breaks in the skin (e.g., cuts, surgical wounds, chickenpox lesions).

• Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water.
• Prompt and proper cleaning and covering of open wounds, cuts, and scrapes.
• Avoid sharing personal items like eating utensils, towels, or razors.
• Seek timely medical attention for suspected strep throat or other Group A Strep infections.