Group A Streptococcus (GAS)

Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a bacteria that is often found in the throat and on the skin of people. GAS is most often associated with “strep throat” and impetigo (blisters on the skin). On rare occasions, GAS can cause severe, life-threatening illness like toxic shock syndrome and necrotizing fasciitis (flesh eating disease).

As part of the Emerging Infections Program, Active Bacterial Core Surveillance Project (ABCs), population-based surveillance of GAS has been ongoing in Minnesota since 1995.

• Group A Streptococcus: Commonly Asked Questions
  Frequently asked questions, a fact sheet about GAS.
  • CDC: Group A Streptococcal Information
    GAS disease information and frequently asked questions from the CDC.
• Group A Streptococcus Statistics
  Summary data describing recent GAS incidence in Minnesota.
• Invasive Group A Streptococcus (GAS) in Long Term Care Facilities
  Long term care facilities are of particular concern with respect to invasive GAS.

• Reporting Streptococcal Disease
  All invasive streptococcal disease caused by group A streptococci must be reported to MDH within one working day.
  • Severe GAS Infection: Supplemental Form
    This form is supplemental to the ABCs Case Report Form. Complete this supplemental form when reporting severe GAS infections. Please return both forms to MDH.