[Characteristics of beta-hemolytic streptococci secreted in children in various climatic zones].

A study was made of the level of carrier-state, serological characteristics, virulence and toxigenicity of beta-hemolytic streptococci isolated from children in two towns with a different incidence of scarlet fever located in the contrast climatic zones. It was found that the level of carrier-state of beta-hemolytic streptococci and biological properties of the circulating strains were important factors associated with the incidence of scarlet fever.