Surging Bacterial Infections in Stockholm: No Need to Panic

Yet another surge, this time not COVID but bacterial infections!

Many are scratching their heads in Stockholm as bacterial infections, especially due to a bacteria type called A-streptococci, are on the rise. More than 400 cases of perianal streptococcal infection (‘stjärtfluss’ in Swedish), a condition impacting the anus or genital area, have been noted. For comparison, only 189 instances were recorded last year. But let’s not push the panic button just yet!

“These types of diseases and infections generally come in waves,” says Malin Ryd Rinder, a senior physician at the Children’s Emergency Department of Karolinska University Hospital.

Unveiling the Post-Pandemic Puzzle

Why the increase, you ask? Well, as per Ms. Rinder, many viruses and bacterial types have bounced back following the pandemic.

Did you know during the pandemic we were less exposed to these sorts of infections? Consequently, our immunity took a slight beating. With life returning to some semblance of normality and humans interacting more frequently, these infections are back in the limelight.

“The immune system builds on us encountering different infections and building a defense against them, so it’s nothing abnormal that these infections occur. Infections are a part of life,” Malin Ryd Rinder explains.

Tackling the Outbreak

Guess what could be fanning the flames? Close-knit environments, such as preschools, where toddlers mingle closely. Despite the unnerving stats, the good news is that most affected by the infection don’t even need to seek medical care.

“The typical picture for stjärtfluss is a clearly defined redness that hurts and burns either around the anus or the genitals,” Rinder details.

To limit the spread, good old hand hygiene, nose blowing, and keeping sick tots at home are the simplest preventive measures. Initially, the idea is to keep the area clean and gosh, change those diapers frequently!

“The first treatment is simply to wash the area with soap and water and let it air. If it’s troublesome, regular penicillin treatment is recommended,” Malin Ryd Rinder concludes.

Wrapping Up

Although the increase in bacterial infections post-pandemic might be concerning, you now understand why and how it’s happening. With preventive measures in place, we’re all set to nip this bug in the bud! Rest assured, health professionals are monitoring the situation closely and underline that this isn’t any reason to lose sleep. So, let’s continue being cautious, keeping ourselves and our loved ones healthy and safe!