TRENTON, N.J. – The New Jersey Assembly Health Committee has approved a measure to raise public awareness about menstrual toxic shock syndrome, designating March 30 each year as “Menstrual Toxic Shock Syndrome Awareness Day” in the state.
Assembly Joint Resolution 57 aims to increase education about the rare but preventable illness, which is typically caused by bacterial infections involving Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, or Clostridium bacteria. According to state health data cited in the resolution, menstrual toxic shock syndrome (MTSS) affects more than 17 in every 100,000 women between the ages of 13 and 25 annually — a rate that has shown little improvement since the 1980s.
Risk factors include the use of highly absorbent tampons, contraceptive sponges, or diaphragms, as well as untreated infections, recent childbirth, miscarriage, or abortion. Symptoms can include fever, dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, rash, confusion, low blood pressure, and in severe cases, organ failure or death.
Lawmakers said the resolution is intended to promote better understanding of the condition and encourage safe menstrual hygiene practices through education campaigns and public health outreach. Supporters believe that increasing awareness can help New Jersey residents recognize early symptoms and take steps to prevent infection.
The joint resolution was prefiled for the 2024–2025 legislative session and amended following a technical review before being released by the committee.
The measure establishes March 30 as “Menstrual Toxic Shock Syndrome Awareness Day” to promote education and prevention of the rare but serious infection.