Group A strep might sound like a simple sore throat—but for many children and families in American Samoa, it can have life-threatening consequences. In this episode of the MotherToBaby Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Anaise Uso, a public health leader and mother, who shares both her professional and deeply personal experiences with strep infections, rheumatic fever, and rheumatic heart disease (RHD).
Together, we explore:

• What Group A Strep is and the common signs of strep throat and skin infections.
• How untreated infections can progress into rheumatic fever and, ultimately, rheumatic heart disease.
• The unique challenges in American Samoa, where children are three times more likely to be affected than in neighboring Pacific Islands.
• The role of screening, prevention, and treatment programs, including antibiotics and regular monitoring.
• A personal story of Dr. Uso's son, who was diagnosed with RHD at age three, and how their family manages his care.
• How partnerships with CDC, AMCHP, and MotherToBaby are helping build resources, raise awareness, and strengthen prevention efforts.
• This episode highlights why early detection, treatment, and community awareness are critical - not only to protect children's immediate health, but also to prevent lifelong complications.

👉 Resources mentioned in this episode:

• MotherToBaby: Group A Strep Fact Sheet
• MotherToBaby: Rheumatic Heart Disease Fact Sheet
• Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs (AMCHP)