(BIVN) – High rates of a serious bacterial infection has been reported in West Hawaiʻi.

The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) and Hawaiʻi District Health Office says they are working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to investigate recent the recent cases of the bacterial infection called invasive Group A Streptococcus, or iGAS.

“At this time, the overall risk to the public is low,” the Hawaiʻi DOH stated, “however, awareness and early treatment are important to prevent severe iGAS illness.”

Health officials say a local physician identified a “higher-than-expected number of patients with iGAS over a period of several months” and informed the health department. The DOH and CDC is now working to confirm “whether there is an increase in the number of people with iGAS in West Hawaiʻi, identify risk factors, evaluate disease reporting, and better understand how infections may be occurring in the community.”

The health department noted that Hawaiʻi has had higher rates than the national average, historically.

From the Hawaiʻi DOH:

Group A Streptococcus bacteria are commonly found on the skin or in the throat and often do not cause an infection. When infections do occur, they are usually mild illnesses such as strep throat or skin infection. In rare cases, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream or other normally sterile parts of the body. This is called invasive Group A Streptococcus (iGAS), which can be serious. Early treatment with antibiotics is effective, especially when care is given promptly.

Some people are at higher risk for severe illness. These include older adults and individuals with chronic medical conditions such as heart, kidney, or respiratory disease and diabetes. People with weakened immune systems, those with open wounds or skin infections — and people experiencing homelessness or who inject drugs may also be at increased risk. In addition, recent viral infections such as influenza or chickenpox can increase one’s risk. The specific causes of the elevated iGAS illnesses in West Hawaiʻi are not yet known, so DOH and CDC are investigating.

DOH encourages the public to take simple steps to reduce the risk of infection. Keep cuts and wounds clean and covered until they heal and wash hands regularly with soap and water. Seek medical care if a wound becomes red, swollen, warm, or produces pus. Anyone experiencing fever, severe pain, or rapidly worsening symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.

Health officials say they will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.