Scientists in Sweden discover key antibody for new treatment against Strep A

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Antibody taken by researchers from recovered Strep A patients could protect against future infections of this bacteria

Researchers at the Lund University in Sweeden have announced the discover an antibody that can protect against future infections of the Strep A bacteria. According to a report in Euronews on Tuesday, December 27, the researchers discovered the antibody from recovered Strep A patients and suggest that it could potentially help in creating a vaccine.  

The report said that after failing despite several attempts to develop a vaccine for Strep A, the researchers have found that this antibody has a unique way of binding to the targeted protein.   

The discovery comes at a time when a major outbreak of the Strep A bacteria has been reported, that has also resulted in an increasing number of deaths, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).  

The WHO has also warned that children under the age of 10 have been the most affected. Aside from this, they also said that an increase in the cases of Strep A have been reported in at least five countries including UK, Ireland, France, the Netherlands and Sweden.   

The report said that an infection of Strep A usually results in mild illnesses such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis, impetigo, cellulitis and scarlet fever. But it can also potentially cause life threatening conditions in rare cases.  

 


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