Home > Review Articles > Ethnic disparities > Distribution of Streptococcal pharyngitis and acute rheumatic fever, Auckland, New Zealand, 2010-2016

Distribution of Streptococcal pharyngitis and acute rheumatic fever, Auckland, New Zealand, 2010-2016

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From Māori Health Review Issue 86
Authors:
  • Oliver J, et al.
Summary:

Ethnic disparities were found to be much higher among children with acute rheumatic fever than among children with GAS pharyngitis in a comparison of cases in Auckland during 2010–2016. Based on 1,257,058 throat swab samples, estimates of GAS pharyngitis occurred with similar incidence (≈19%) in children aged 5–14 years across ethnic groups. There were 792 hospitalisations for acute rheumatic fever during the same period with Māori and Pacific Island children at a higher risk than children of European/other ethnicity.

Comment:
Some key points here in these two papers that suggest management of acute rheumatic fever in Aotearoa is an issue. Firstly, that recurrence rates are higher here than reported elsewhere. Second, that recurrence occurs in teenagers and young adults here in New Zealand, whereas it is more common in the 12 months after initial acute rheumatic fever (i.e. in childhood/young teens). And finally that it is more common in our biggest city (when rurality is a bigger risk factor internationally). We must get onto this! The second paper raises important questions about factors, other than GAS-positive swabs, that lead to acute rheumatic fever.
Reference: Emerg Infect Dis. 2020;26(6):1113-1121.
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

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