1 rich Libsyn https://www.libsyn.com 90 600 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&amp;nbsp;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 &amp;amp; Child Health Programs (AMCHP) The MotherToBaby Podcast https://mothertobaby.org/podcast/ <iframe title="Libsyn Player" style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/40202080/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/88AA3C/" height="90" width="600" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe> https://assets.libsyn.com/secure/item/40202080