Distribution of Beta-Hemolytic Streptococci of Throat Culture of Elementary School Children in Jinju Area, 2004

Koh, Eun Ha; Kim, Sunjoo

Abstract

BACKGROUND
The carrier study of group A streptococci (GAS), the most common cause of bacterial pharyngitis, is important to understand the epidemiology of GAS in the region. The authors performed throat cultures from the children of four elementary schools in Jinju area to investigate current microbiological characteristics in this area.
METHODS
Throat cultures were taken from 2,351 healthy elementary school children (male 1,311 and female 1,040) from October through December, 2004. Two schools are located in rural areas, while the other two schools are in Jinju city. Beta-hemolytic streptococci (BHS) were identified with bacitracin disk (0.04 U) and latex agglutination test (Seroiden Strepto Kit, Eiken).
RESULTS
Four-hundred forty-three (18.8%) yielded BHS from 2,351 school children. Serogrouping revealed 84.9% of group A, 5.9% of group C, 4.7% of group B, 3.6% of group G, and 0.9% of non-group A, B, C, G in a decreasing order. Isolation rate of GAS was similar between girls and boys. Children of elementary schools in rural areas showed significantly higher isolation rates (18.6-21.7%) compared to those (12.5-12.7%) in urban areas.
CONCLUSION
The isolation rate of BHS was 18.8% in Jinju area, 2004. Group A was 84.9% and group C was next common. Although the isolation rate of GAS was similar by age or sex, it showed a significant difference by the location of the schools.