WHEREAS, Necrotizing fasciitis was first described in medical literature in 1883 and was originally described as a disease of unknown cause; and

WHEREAS, Necrotizing fasciitis is an uncommon clinical disease of the layers of tissue under the skin that is often referred to in popular culture as the flesh-eating bacteria or virus; and

WHEREAS, The most common causes of the disease are the bacteria group A hemolytic, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus, either alone or in combination. Other cases are reported to be caused by other types of bacteria, including those naturally found within the intestines of normal healthy individuals; and

WHEREAS, Necrotizing fasciitis can occur in any age group. Although sometimes there are precipitating factors, it is most commonly associated with surgical procedures. It also may be seen in those with diabetes mellitus, atherosclerotic vascular disease, malignancy, and hypertension; and

WHEREAS, In rare occasions, necrotizing fasciitis may occur following minor injuries to the skin, falls, cuts, or tears, but sometimes is not apparent and can occur in apparently healthy individuals; and

WHEREAS, Though necrotizing fasciitis can affect anywhere on the body, the most common sites are the abdomen, arms, legs, extremities, and face, particularly around the eyes; and

WHEREAS, While progress has been made in understanding the symptoms and better diagnosing the disease, there is still much to learn about necrotizing fasciitis; now, therefore, be it