Number of cases of Group B Streptococcus infections down

The Ministry of Health (MOH) would like to provide an update on Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infections.

2. A downtrend in the number of GBS cases was seen from mid-July 2015, since licensed foodshop and foodstall holders were advised by NEA to stop the sales of raw fish dishes using Song fish (also known as Asian Bighead Carp) and Toman fish (also known as Snakehead fish). While investigations by MOH, AVA and NEA are ongoing, the number of cases notified to MOH has decreased to an average of three cases per week in the last three weeks, similar to the baseline level before the outbreak of about three per week. This compares with an average of 20 cases per week seen since the beginning of 2015.

3. AVA has investigated along the entire food supply chain of these fish. Tests have so far not detected the same strain of GBS that has been detected in humans. Nevertheless, as a precautionary measure, NEA’s advisory to licensed foodshop and foodstall holders to withhold the sales of raw fish dishes using Song and Toman fish continues to be in place. Further investigations are being conducted by MOH, AVA and NEA.

4. As a general precaution, vulnerable groups of people, especially young children, pregnant women, elderly persons, or people with chronic illness such as diabetes, should continue to exercise caution by avoiding raw ready-to-eat food.

Background

5. GBS is a common bacterium found in the human gut and urinary tract of about 15% to 30% of adults without causing disease. However, GBS may occasionally cause infections of the skin, joints, heart and brain. The risk factors for GBS infection include underlying chronic or co-morbid conditions, such as diabetes. Most GBS infections are treatable with antibiotics.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH
23 AUGUST 2015