The first nationwide study on necrotising fasciitis (NF) has shown a marked increase in the flesh-eating disease.
University of Otago, Wellington research funded by the Ministry of Health has shown that NF has risen from fewer than 10 cases a year in 1996 to more than 70 cases a year in 2006.
NF is a bacterial infection which causes the rapid destruction of soft tissue, and can require extensive surgery or amputation. The disease has a 21 percent risk of fatality.
Study author Associate Professor Michael Baker says although the disease remains uncommon its quick onset and high fatality rated make it feared.
“If anyone is suffering severe local pain and fever following even a small skin wound they should immediately see a doctor,” he says.
“Rapid treatment is absolutely vital to save lives with NF.”
The causes of the NF increase are not known, but may include greater virulence of the infecting bacteria, decreased resistance because of other chronic illnesses, and environmental factors.
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