Jaxson Elvis Robert Simpson : “Invasive Group A Strep Claims Sudbury Boy: Tragic Incident”

An eight-year-old boy in Greater Sudbury has tragically lost his life to invasive group A streptococcal disease, a severe and fast-moving bacterial infection that is becoming increasingly prevalent in Canada.

Public Health Sudbury and Districts takes a proactive approach in all cases of invasive group A strep in the region, including contacting close contacts once a case is confirmed. Although the health unit has not released the boy’s identity, friends and family online have identified him as Jaxson Elvis Robert Simpson, who passed away on February 4th from the bacterial infection. A celebration of life was held in his honor at the N’Swakamok Native Friendship Centre in Sudbury on Sunday, and a GoFundMe campaign has been established to provide financial support to the grieving family.

Kaitlyn Mullally, a close friend of the boy’s mother, expressed her devastation on the GoFundMe campaign page, stating, “On February 4th, 2024, one of my best friends and neighbor, Megan, went through something no parent should ever have to endure. She lost her precious 8-year-old boy Jaxson. No parent should have to experience the pain of burying their child. It’s supposed to be the other way around.”

After being transported from Health Sciences North, the boy passed away at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto.

According to his obituary, Jaxson was a highly intelligent and energetic young boy who had an insatiable thirst for knowledge. He excelled in everything he undertook and was always inquisitive, asking questions to satisfy his curiosity.

According to the GoFundMe campaign, the boy initially exhibited symptoms such as fever, nausea, and diarrhea, which seemed like typical ailments that both children and adults often experience. However, his condition rapidly deteriorated and became life-threatening.

Mullally shared the heartbreaking details, stating, “He was airlifted to Sick Kids in Toronto, where he was diagnosed with strep A virus. They say every child reacts differently to the virus, and devastatingly, Jaxson was one of the rare cases where such a common virus took his poor little life. Jaxson’s virus turned septic, and the doctors were unable to save him.”

Understanding the financial strain on the boy’s mother during this difficult time, Mullally reached out to friends, family, and the wider community for assistance. She requested donations to cover any costs the family may incur and to enable the mother to take the necessary time off work.

Increase in Invasive Strep A Cases

Katie Junkin, a specialist with the health protection team at Public Health Sudbury and Districts, could not comment directly on this specific case but revealed that there have been four cases of invasive strep A reported so far in 2024. Health authorities have observed a steady rise in severe cases across Canada and the province since before the pandemic. In the Greater Sudbury region alone, there were 25 cases in 2019. This number increased to approximately 30-40 cases per year between 2020 and 2022.

In 2023, the Greater Sudbury region reported 53 cases, with four resulting in fatalities.

Junkin stated, “Over the past five years, we have noticed a consistent increase in cases, which aligns with what we are witnessing in other parts of the province. The incidence is slightly higher in northern areas.”

Public Health Ontario is conducting further research into these trends to identify potential risk factors associated with more severe outcomes.

When notified of a case, health officials at the health unit initiate an investigation to identify individuals who may have had close contact with the infected person. They then assess the need for preventive antibiotics.

“We follow up with all contacts and inquire about any symptoms they may be experiencing,” Junkin explained. “We also advise contacts to monitor their health for any signs or symptoms.” Symptoms may include a sore throat, joint pain, or an unexplained rash.

Household members, anyone who has spent four or more hours with the infected person in the preceding seven days, individuals who share a bed, or those with close contact with mucous membranes are typically considered close contacts.

Contacting schools may be part of the follow-up process, Junkin added.

Mild Symptoms, Severe Consequences

Junkin explained that group A streptococcal disease is caused by a bacteria that can be found on human skin, in the throat, or in the nasal cavities. It typically presents as a sore throat and can lead to strep throat, impetigo, or scarlet fever.

While many people can carry the bacteria without displaying symptoms, it becomes invasive when it enters sterile areas of the body, such as the blood, muscles, or lungs.

“While regular group A streptococcal infections are usually mild, invasive cases can result in severe illness and unfortunately, become life-threatening,” said Junkin.

In severe cases, group A streptococcal can lead to pneumonia, flesh-eating disease, meningitis, and toxic shock syndrome.

Junkin explained that group A streptococcal is primarily transmitted through close contact with an infected person. This can occur through coughing, sneezing, contact with a wound, or sharing a contaminated needle.

“The infection becomes more severe when it breaches the skin barrier and enters the blood or tissues,” she added.

Junkin offered some advice to parents, emphasizing the importance of seeking medical attention and treatment before the illness progresses to a severe stage.

“If you experience a severe sore throat without a cough or other respiratory symptoms, especially if accompanied by a fever, we recommend seeing a healthcare provider,” she advised.

If you develop a rash resembling sandpaper or experience extreme lethargy, it is crucial to contact a medical professional.

“A throat swab is a quick and easy way to identify strep bacteria, and when caught early, it can be effectively treated with antibiotics,” Junkin stated. “Early treatment significantly improves the prognosis.”

Practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing before eating and cooking, being cautious with open wounds, and seeking treatment for any wounds, can help prevent the spread of the bacteria.

While there is no vaccine available specifically for the streptococcal bacteria, Junkin recommends staying up to date with routine vaccinations.

How to Support the Grieving Family

The Remembering Jaxson fundraising campaign has surpassed its initial goal of $5,000 as of Wednesday afternoon. To contribute to the campaign and help support the family during this challenging time, visit tinyurl.com/2kymk37b.