Acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis

Acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN) is an inflammatory disease of the kidneys.

It is an immune response to an infection from group A streptococcus bacteria, typically caused by skin sores or a sore throat.

The NT has one of the highest incidence rates of APSGN in the world.

It most commonly affects Aboriginal children but can be experienced by anyone.

While severe outbreaks are rare, you should take precautions and preventative measures.

How it spreads

APSGN occurs between 2 to 3 weeks after skin or throat infection of group A streptococcus bacteria.

It can also occasionally be spread through group C or G streptococcus.

You can't catch APSGN from someone else because it is your body’s immune response to bacteria and not an infection by itself.

However, someone with a streptococcus infection can spread the bacteria to others, mainly through respiratory droplets.

APSGN most commonly affects children between 12 months to 17 years old, but can occur at any age.

Aboriginal children are a high-risk group.

Symptoms of APSGN can include:

If you think you or your child may have APSGN, contact your local clinic or health professional to get checked.

Take kids to the clinic if they have skin sores, scabies or sore throats to get them treated early.

Skin sores (a common symptom of APSGN) are treatable with benzathine penicillin, which you can get through a prescription.

There is currently no vaccine for group A streptococcus.

Good hygiene is the main way to prevent all forms of bacterial infections.

To reduce the spread of bacteria, wash your hands regularly, especially:

People with 'strep throats' should avoid contact with others.

To find out more, go to the NT Health website.

Contact your nearest Centre for Disease Control on the NT Health website.