Earlier this week, the centre issued a press release urging residents to take “vital precautions” to keep away from the an infection when travelling to the nation.With greater than 1 million Hongkongers heading to Japan within the first 5 months of this yr alone, the Put up breaks down what the bacterial an infection is and tips on how to shield your self.1. What’s the micro organism?Based on the Centre for Well being Safety, an an infection of Streptococcus pyogenes, or Group A streptococcus (GAS), can result in gentle and customary sicknesses equivalent to a sore throat or pores and skin an infection, equivalent to impetigo.In uncommon instances, known as “invasive GAS” or iGAS, the micro organism may cause extra extreme and even life-threatening problems.That is because of the micro organism coming into components of the physique the place the minute dwelling organisms aren’t widespread, such because the blood, muscle mass or cerebrospinal fluid.In instances of Streptococcal poisonous shock syndrome involving iGAS sufferers, severe signs can develop in a short while characterised by low blood strain, a faster-than-normal coronary heart price, speedy respiratory and indicators suggesting organ failure.Different signs could embrace excessive fever, chills, dizziness, nausea, extreme muscle ache, swelling and redness on the website of a wound.Based on america Centres for Illness Management and Prevention, the fatality price for streptococcal poisonous shock syndrome can exceed 30 per cent.2. How does it unfold?Based on the Centre for Well being Safety, GAS infections can unfold at any time of the yr, and other people can carry the an infection with out exhibiting any signs.It may be transmitted by way of respiratory droplets, touching the injuries of an contaminated individual or by being involved with contaminated gear.Whereas a typical an infection can take wherever from one to 5 days to set in, indicators of streptococcal poisonous shock syndrome normally develop inside 24 to 48 hours of preliminary signs.The centre stated the aged, younger youngsters, the immunocompromised, these with power sicknesses, equivalent to diabetes, or individuals who just lately had a viral an infection have been at a better threat of iGAS.The centre recommends avoiding swimming within the ocean and swimming pools or utilizing services equivalent to scorching springs till any cuts or wounds shut. Picture: Getty Images3. What precautions must you take? Ought to vacationers nonetheless take pleasure in onsen?The centre advisable travellers practise correct wound care to scale back the possibility of turning into contaminated, together with cleansing cuts instantly and masking them with a water-proof adhesive till totally healed.It additionally advisable avoiding swimming within the ocean and swimming pools or utilizing services equivalent to scorching springs till the wound closed.“Travellers are strongly suggested to practise hand hygiene often, keep away from sharing private objects and placed on a surgical masks in case of going to crowded locations,” a centre spokesman stated.Infectious illness skilled Dr Joseph Tsang Kay-yan stated scorching springs and public bathhouses heightened the probabilities of turning into contaminated, as folks have been usually altering out and in of garments, and sharing widespread objects equivalent to towels.“In these environments … the potential for having a wound uncovered is extra seemingly,” he stated.Individuals ought to instantly search medical consideration in the event that they develop signs. Most instances will be handled with antibiotics, however streptococcal poisonous shock syndrome could require hospital therapy or surgical procedure.4. How involved are Hongkongers?Information of the rise in instances has unfold quick throughout Hong Kong social media, with many on-line customers warning others to remain vigilant over the virus.However it has not essentially dampened residents’ urge to journey to Japan.Yuen Chun-ning, govt director of journey company WWPKG, stated he fielded a few dozen inquiries concerning the state of affairs during the last week, with these trying to journey with infants or aged exhibiting explicit concern.As soon as they discovered concerning the numerous journey insurance coverage and medical protection choices, in addition to the steps to scale back the probability of an infection, most of his prospects had “put their thoughts relaxed”, he stated.Yuen added that whereas the instances had but to have an effect on demand, it may if the state of affairs persevered or worsened, he stated.5. What different ailments must you look out for on summer time vacation?The centre additionally warned residents to be looking out for mosquito-borne ailments when travelling overseas this summer time.Citing knowledge from the World Well being Group, the centre stated there had been a “vital improve” in dengue fever throughout components of Asia, equivalent to Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand.For the reason that begin of this yr, components of the Americas together with Brazil, Colombia and Peru have additionally seen a report 8 million dengue fever infections.Travellers have been suggested to put on free, long-sleeved tops and trousers, and use DEET-containing insect repellent. If participating in outside actions, the centre urged folks to keep away from utilizing aromatic cosmetics or skincare merchandise.It additionally advisable consulting a physician at the least six weeks earlier than travelling to areas the place mosquito-borne infections have been widespread to find out whether or not any vaccinations or different preventive measures have been vital.“Returned travellers ought to seek the advice of a physician promptly if creating signs equivalent to fever, respiratory signs, rash or painful swelling, and inform the physician of their journey historical past for immediate prognosis and therapy,” a spokesman added.