[The present-day epidemiological process in streptococcal infection]

Abstract

The changes in the epidemiological process of streptococcal infection in various periods are presented. From the great epidemics, extremely severe and with multi-annual evolution reported in the past, the last decades are characterized by a permanent decrease in incidence of scarlet fever and a progressive increase of streptococcal anginas. These aspects required a more careful surveillance of the agglomeration at epidemiological risk and an estimation of the late complications frequency. The role of some factors in making scarlet fever a benign affection with a diminished epidemic character, in lowering the incidence of streptococcal infections and of their complications, among which the social-economic conditions, the standardized treatment with Penicillin G and oral penicillin, the contacts' prophylaxis with oral penicillin is underlined. In conclusion it is mentioned that, as part of primary care, the surveillance--detection, isolation, adequate treatment should be improved.