In terms of age, which group is most commonly affected by respiratory tract infections due to Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus (GAB)?

Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS) is a significant cause of respiratory tract infections, particularly streptococcal pharyngitis. The group that is most commonly affected includes children aged 6 months to 6 years. This age group experiences a higher incidence of such infections for several reasons.

Firstly, children between 6 months and 6 years are in a developmental stage where they start to interact with other children, such as in daycare or school settings, making them more susceptible to infections that are transmitted through respiratory droplets. Their immune systems are still developing, making them more vulnerable to pathogens like GABHS.

Additionally, the type of respiratory infections caused by GABHS typically occurs in the context of viral infections, which are also more common in this age group due to their less developed immunity. As children grow older and their immune systems mature, their susceptibility to infections caused by GABHS decreases.

In contrast, neonates and infants under 1 year have different risk factors and typically face a different spectrum of infections, largely due to maternal antibodies providing some initial protection against infections. Children over 10 years also face decreased morbidity from GABHS respiratory infections as their immune systems are more robust and they encounter these