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Streptococcus is a genus of spherical, Gram-positive bacteria of the phylum Firmicutes. These bacteria grow in chains or pairs, with cell division occurring only along one axis. In this sense they are contrasted with Staphylococcus, which divides along several axes, generating a " cluster " of cells, which resemble clusters of grapes.
Members of the genus Streptococcus which cause diseaseA disease is any abnormal condition of the body or mind that causes discomfort, dysfunction, or distress to the person affected or those in contact with the person. Sometimes the term is used broadly to include injuries, disabilities, syndromes, symptoms, include:
- Group A Streptococci ( Streptococcus pyogenes) which causes Group A streptococcal infectionThe group A streptococcus bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes is responsible for most cases of streptococcal illness. Other types (B, C, D, and G) may also cause infection. Group B streptococci cause most streptococcal infections in newborns and maternal pos
- Group B Streptococci ( Streptococcus agalactiae ) which causes meningitisMeningitis is inflammation of the membranes ( meninges) covering the brain and the spinal cord. Although the most common causes are infection (either bacterial or viral), chemical agents and even tumor cells may cause meningitis. Encephalitis and brain ab in neonates and the elderly, with occasional systemic bacteremia. They can also colonise the female reproductive tract, increasing the risk for premature rupture of membranes and transmission to the child.
- Group D Streptococci (S. durans, S. avium, S. bovis)
- Streptococcus pneumoniae which can cause pneumonia
- Streptococcus viridans group which cause endocarditis and dental abscess es.
Transmission
Streptococcus are part of the normal flora of the mouth, skin, intestine and upper respiratory tract of humans.
Specific strains or species can be transmitted in several ways:
- Physical contact
- Using the same eating and drinking utensils as someone who has the bacteria
- Coughing, sneezing, or breathing on someone
- Touching the same doorknobs, faucets, etc.
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Firmicutes
