NC_007297:1406796 Streptococcus pyogenes MGAS5005, complete genome
Host Lineage: Streptococcus pyogenes; Streptococcus; Streptococcaceae; Lactobacillales; Firmicutes; Bacteria
General Information: Isolated from an invasive case in Ontario. Causes tonsilitis. Streptococci are Gram-positive, nonmotile, nonsporeforming, catalase-negative cocci that occur in pairs or chains. Members of this genus vary widely in pathogenic potential. Most streptococci are facultative anaerobes, and some are obligate anaerobes. Serologic grouping is based on antigenic differences in cell wall carbohydrates, in cell wall pili-associated protein, and in the polysaccharide capsule in group B streptococci. This organism is a member of the normal human nasopharyngeal flora. S. pyogenes is a group A streptococcus and is the leading cause of uncomplicated bacterial pharyngitis and tonsillitis. This organism is commonly referred to by the lay press as "flesh eating bacteria".