Group A Streptococcus Meningitis, United States, 1997–2022 - Volume 32, Number 1—January 2026 - Emerging Infectious Diseases journal - CDC

January 1, 2026
Review
Paulina A. Hawkins, Sopio Chochua, Namrata Prasad, Jennifer O. Okaro, Yuan Li, Tasha Martin, Ann Thomas, Bridget J. Anderson, Kari E. Burzlaff, Lee Harrison, Shannon Seopaul, Nisha Alden, Rachel Herlihy, William Schaffner, H. Keipp Talbot, Ruth Lynfield, Kathy Como-Sabetti, Maria Rosales, Shua Chai, Sam Sefton, Jessica R. Howard-Anderson, Sarah Khanlian, Jessica Houston, Susan Petit, Adam L. Cohen, Christopher J. Gregory
Pathogen:Group A Streptococcus
Infection Type:Meningitis
Pathogen Type:Bacteria

Summary

This report examines invasive Group A Streptococcus (GAS) meningitis cases in the United States from 1997 to 2022. While uncommon, GAS meningitis presents with severe symptoms typical of bacterial meningitis and is diagnosed through cerebrospinal fluid culture or PCR. The study highlights its higher case-fatality rate compared to other meningitis etiologies, underscoring the severity of this rare infection across various demographics. Understanding the clinical course and outcomes of GAS meningitis is crucial for early recognition and improved patient management.

Key note: Invasive Group A Streptococcus meningitis, though rare, carries a significantly higher case-fatality rate than other forms of meningitis.

DOI: 10.3201/eid3201.250871