Streptococcus pyogenes (group A Streptococcus)

Group A streptococcal (GAS) disease is a major problem worldwide. GAS causes infections such as strep throat and impetigo. These bacteria also cause approximately 11,000–24,000 cases of severe (invasive) GAS disease, such as necrotizing fasciitis, in the United States each year. Each year, about 1,200–1,900 people die due to invasive GAS disease. The disease burden in developing countries, especially due to rheumatic heart disease, is much greater.