The Department of Health (DOH) does not yet consider streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) as a public health concern in the country. 

This is amid a reported surge of STSS cases in Japan in recent months, with 977 cases recorded as of June 2, according to their National Institute of Infectious Diseases. 

"The DOH does not see STSS as a public health concern at this point in time," DOH spokesperson Asec. Albert Domingo told reporters in a Viber message. 

"We invite more attention to risk communication efforts against the WILD diseases - Water-borne illnesses, Influenza-like illnesses, Leptospirosis, and Dengue. By burden of disease and by effect on quality of life, they are more worthy of public attention," he added. 

DOH naaalarma sa pagdami ng leptospirosis cases

Meantime, infectious disease expert Dr. Rontgene Solante explained "there is no data" on the total number of STSS cases in the Philippines.

"Because that is not a reportable case. STSS is not a rare or new infection," he said in a text message to ABS-CBN News.

Solante advised the public to practice handwashing and keep themselves healthy to prevent the disease.

'RARE - BUT SERIOUS'

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), STSS is a rare but serious bacterial infection, which can "develop very quickly into a life-threatening emergency".

"People with STSS need immediate care in a hospital and antibiotics. Treatment focuses on managing low blood pressure and multiple organ failure," the agency explained. 

"Group A Streptococcus (group A strep bacteria) cause STSS," it added. 

DOH sounds alarm over increasing leptospirosis cases

Initial symptoms of the disease include fever and chills, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting. 

"After the first symptoms start, it usually only takes about 24 to 48 hours for low blood pressure to develop. Once this happens, STSS quickly gets much more serious:: hypotension (low blood pressure), organ failure (other signs that organs are not working), tachycardia (faster than normal heart rate), and tachypnea (rapid breathing)," the CDC said. 

The agency said risk factors include age, as STSS is more common in older adults or those aged 65 and above, while people with diabetes or alcohol use disorder are at greater risk.