In the Wake of the Tragedy in Givatayim: 7 Important Facts About the Flesh-Eating Bacteria

This week, hearts were shocked by the tragedy that struck the family of the three-year-old boy from Givatayim. On Shabbat morning, he seemed completely healthy. Later, he felt unwell and developed a fever. The parents were convinced it was a mild winter illness and decided to take him to a doctor. He was taken to a medical center, where he was prescribed antibiotics, and after being kept under observation for a few hours and showing improvement, he was released home. Within a few hours, the worst occurred: his condition deteriorated rapidly, and he was rushed to the emergency room at Ichilov in critical condition due to an infection. Despite all attempts to revive him, the child passed away in the hospital. The diagnosis: the flesh-eating bacteria.

1. What is the flesh-eating bacteria?

The flesh-eating bacteria is from the streptococcus family, known to cause strep throat. The bacteria can continue to multiply on the skin and cause necrosis requiring surgical removal. Under certain conditions, it can lead to "toxic shock syndrome," a life-threatening condition resulting in severe infection and, without treatment, death.

2. What is the origin of the name?

The name "flesh-eating bacteria" originates from the "Daily Mirror" newspaper, which coined the chilling nickname during a deadly bacterial outbreak in 1944. Since then, the nickname has been attributed to a wide range of aggressive and deadly bacteria that cause a violently rapid and almost uncontrollable illness. The main one among them is streptococcus, known to us from common strep throat diseases.

3. Who is at risk of infection?

Those at risk for the disease include anyone suffering from the following conditions: burns, diabetes, chickenpox infection, malignancy, immune system impairment, age under two years, skin laceration injuries, postnatal infection, drug use, heart diseases, and prolonged use of steroids.

4. How can the disease be identified?

It is very difficult to identify the disease, as the symptoms initially seem very general: fever, weakness, etc. However, within a few hours, the damage to the muscles and soft tissues is severe and irreversible. Therefore, if one feels unwell and exhibits exaggerated symptoms compared to expectations, it is crucial to see a doctor for examination and diagnosis.

5. What are the symptoms of infection?

Medical literature lists four symptoms that should raise suspicion for parents, even if the doctor claims it is "viral":

Severe and extreme muscle pain – After infection, severe pain occurs in the area where the bacteria entered the body, and patients describe muscle pain similar to a cramp. The pain will generally be severe and extreme relative to the point of entry or other characteristics, and in such cases, one should suspect this disease.

Redness, ulcers, and blisters – The affected area begins to develop signs of inflammation and tissue damage characterized by severe redness, the appearance of ulcers on the skin, and blisters. Changes in the skin appear within hours of infection and are usually not reversible easily.

Fever – High fever is a sign of infectious disease. The combination of fever, pain, and redness of the skin should light a red flag.

Nausea and vomiting, severe fatigue – Besides the mentioned symptoms, infection with the flesh-eating bacteria can also cause additional symptoms that express the severe condition the body is in, such as nausea and vomiting, drowsiness, and severe fatigue.

6. What is the medical treatment? The initial treatment for the flesh-eating bacteria must be administered quickly and includes intravenous antibiotics. The antibiotic treatment helps eliminate the bacteria and prevent the spread of tissue destruction, making it essential. The more delayed the treatment is, the more tissue will be destroyed, and the chances of recovery will decrease.

7.How can infection with the bacteria be prevented? Streptococcus is one of the most common bacteria worldwide, with millions carrying it on their bodies without even knowing. Because it is so contagious, it is very difficult to predict or prevent infection. The only way to prevent infection is through maximum hygiene. And of course – pray to Hashem to keep us healthy for His service.

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