‘Anus-eating’ bacteria kills 30% and spreads; understand

Japan recorded more than 378 cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) in the first two months of 2024, according to information from the Daily Star. The bacteria is being popularly called “anus-eating bacteria”, but in fact, it is a bacteria. Because it is a highly lethal disease, it is also called “carnivorous”. The bacteria kills around 30% of infected people, according to Japanese health agencies. The disease is spreading rapidly across the country.

According to the Daily Star, around 941 cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) were detected in 2023. According to experts, the bacteria is caused by a more serious form of the bacteria that causes streptococcus.

Despite being popularly known as ‘anus-eating’ bacteria, the disease is not only related to the region. Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS) is not capable of “eat” the anus. The viral disease only spreads through orifices such as the anus, mouth, nostrils and genitals.

‘Anus-eating’ bacteria worries authorities

According to experts, what worries about the ‘anus-eating’ bacteria is that it is not known what is causing the increase in the disease. According to the Daily Starthe spokesperson for the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) there are many unknown factors regarding the severe and sudden onset forms of strep.

Strep The cause is ‘anus-eating’ bacteria

The UK’s Health Security Agency reported that Strep A bacteria is a bacteria that can grow in the throat, skin, anus and genitals and can cause a range of diseases that affect the skin and soft tissue. The agency explains that the scientific name of the disease is Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS) and the ‘anus-eating’ bacteria is just a popular name.

“Repeated Strep A conditions, which affect around 50 million people worldwide, can lead to heart-related autoimmune problems. Each year, serious cases of Strep A claim around half a million lives and the disease is detected through close contact with infected people.”

According to the agency, it is unclear why STSS numbers are increasing in Japan.

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