The prospect of vaccination against group A beta-hemolytic streptococci.

Group A streptococcus is a widespread human pathogen that causes a broad spectrum of human disease. The persistent high burden and severity of illness in developing and industrialized countries speaks to the need for a safe and effective vaccine. Modern approaches to vaccine construction include M protein type-specific vaccines, vaccines utilizing conserved M antigens, and vaccines based on other conserved surface-expressed or secreted antigens. Vaccine candidates in various stages of development offer promise for prevention of Group A streptococcal infections and their sequelae.