An alarming increase in cases of a deadly flesh-eating genital disease, known as necrotising fasciitis, has prompted urgent warnings from UK medical professionals.
According to a report from Daily Star, this rare but life-threatening bacterial infection, which can kill within hours, is becoming more prevalent in the UK, particularly affecting the genital region.
Necrotising fasciitis, often referred to as the “flesh-eating disease,” is caused by aggressive bacteria that enter the body, typically through minor cuts, scrapes, or wounds.
Once inside, the infection spreads rapidly, destroying skin, muscle, and other tissues at an alarming rate. The disease’s speed is what makes it so dangerous—without immediate treatment, it can lead to death in as little as one or two days.
Doctors are sounding the alarm after noting a worrying spike in cases. The infection’s ability to progress swiftly means early recognition and treatment are critical.
Symptoms often start with intense pain, swelling, and redness in the affected area, which may initially seem disproportionate to the size of the wound.
As the infection advances, patients may experience fever, confusion, and signs of systemic illness, such as low blood pressure, as the bacteria release toxins into the bloodstream.
Treatment typically involves emergency surgery to remove infected tissue, alongside powerful antibiotics to combat the bacteria.
In severe cases, amputation of affected limbs or extensive tissue removal may be necessary to halt the spread.
Even with prompt intervention, the disease carries a high mortality rate, with approximately 1 in 5 patients succumbing to the infection, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The rise in necrotising fasciitis cases is not unique to the UK. Similar trends have been reported elsewhere, such as in the United States, where cases doubled from 2013 to 2022, resulting in nearly 2,000 deaths over that period.
Factors like increased rainfall and flooding, which can introduce bacteria like Vibrio vulnificus into wounds, have been linked to spikes in infections in some regions.
However, Streptococcus bacteria remain the most common cause of necrotising fasciitis in many cases.
Medics are urging the public to seek immediate medical attention for any signs of infection that escalate quickly, particularly in the genital area or following minor injuries.
Simple precautions, such as thoroughly cleaning wounds and avoiding contact with contaminated water, can reduce the risk of infection.
The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust emphasized the importance of public awareness, as early intervention can be the difference between life and death.
