Multiple state health departments warn customers of Monarch Med Spa over possible strep exposure

Health departments in several states are warning customers of a cosmetic surgery center chain about the potential risk of exposure to Group A Streptococcus.

Group A Streptococcus Image/CDC

The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) and the Baltimore County Department of Health are investigating a cluster of three severe invasive Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections in persons who recently had liposuction at a cosmetic surgery center, Monarch Med Spa, in Timonium, Maryland.  The procedures occurred in mid-August to mid-September.  All three patients were hospitalized; one subsequently died.

DHMH and Baltimore County have ordered the facility closed while the investigation proceeds to determine possible sources of the infections and to limit further spread.  The facility has been cooperative in the course of the investigation.

This has prompted health officials in neighboring Pennsylvania and Delaware to advise customers of Monarch Med Spa location there as a precautionary measure.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health is advising customers of Monarch Medspa in Harrisburg, King of Prussia and Philadelphia and the Delaware Division of Public Health is doing the same for patrons at the Greenville location in New Castle County.

Symptoms of Group A strep infections include fever and prolonged redness around the site of a medical procedure. Anyone who has these symptoms is asked to contact their healthcare provider or the local health department.