Two Cases of Deadly Bacteria in Gillette - KGWN –Cheyenne, WY– Scottsbluff, NE News,Weather, Sports

Two Cases of Deadly Bacteria in Gillette

Cases of flesh-eating bacteria in the state have caused some concern.

Two cases have been confirmed in Gillette. One resulting in death.

The bacteria comes from the same organism that causes strep throat and is much more common than you think.

At Campbell County Memorial Hospital in Gillette two people have been diagnosed with a Group A strep infection, further classified as necrotizing fasciitis.

"There may be a break in the skin or it's introduced into a new break in the skin and it can cause very rapidly progressive skin and soft tissue infections," said Dr. Tracy Murphy, State Epidemiologist.

The nature of this disease is so severe that Cheyenne Regional Medical Center is deciding not to comment about it to NewsChannel 5 on camera, for fear that it may induce panic among area residents.

It can occur in anyone, but studies show 70% of cases occur in patients with certain conditions.

"That includes elderly folks, people with underlying conditions that may weaken their immune system. Diabetes, cancer," Dr. Murphy said.

The organism that causes the disease also causes strep throat and is a very common bacteria.

"Many people carry it, maybe 10-20% of the people. It's just a very small minority of that, that gets the severe infections," Dr. Murphy said.

The bacteria is carried in the respiratory tract. Symptoms usually involve pain and feeling sick.

"If you have a wound, even if it's very small people will describe severe pain at that sight which seems to be out of proportion for the wound," Dr. Murphy said.

Dr. Murphy recommended contacting your physician immediately if you experience any of those symptoms.

In certain cases, symptoms can progress in less than a day. The disease must be treated with antibiotics and sometimes surgery.