The UK continues to be rocked by a surge in cases of Strep A with several cases of the potentially deadly invasive Strep A being reported among schoolchildren in recent weeks.
The latest death in Belfast takes the toll of children dying from an invasive version of the infection to nine.
The UK Health Security Agency has urged GPs to set a “low threshold” for providing antibiotics at the earliest signs of Strep A.
Strep A can normally be treated with antibiotics but symptoms, such as a fever and sore throat, can be mistaken for other viruses.
But experts fear a lack of immunity after Covid-19 lockdowns and social distancing could be to blame.
There are fears GPs and A&Es could be flooded with parents. They have been warned not to self diagnose and give children leftover antibiotics.
So how worried should parents be?
What is Strep A and how is it spread?
Strep A is short for Group A Streptococcus, a common bacterium found in the throat and on the skin. It spreads through coughs, sneezes and skin contact, such as through open wounds. It becomes a problem when it passes our natural defence systems and grows in unusual areas, such as blood or organs. This is known as invasive Strep A.
What are the main symptoms and are there any less common ones to watch for?
Pain when swallowing, high temperature, swollen tonsils with white patches, swollen neck glands and a rash. Less common are vomiting and nausea, abdominal pain and stiff joints. Signs of severe infection include high fever, severe muscle aches, pain in one area, red rashes and vomiting/diarrhoea.
Who is most at risk?
Those with weaker immune systems – young and elderly, people on immunosuppressant medications, those with long-term health conditions like diabetes and cancer or on kidney dialysis, or those who use steroids. At-risk people are even weaker after a cold or flu.
Have Covid lockdowns been responsible for this outbreak?
There are theories to suggest the lack of contact with conditions such as Strep A led to an inability to fight off the infection now.
Could repeated Covid infections lead to Strep A?
The only link is that viral infections put a load on your immune system, which may then prevent it from dealing with other infections.
Should you isolate with Strep A symptoms?
It’s common sense to stay clear of people if you feel unwell. If you can’t, a medical grade mask will prevent the spread.
Should children stay off school if they’re at risk?
Strep A is an incredibly common bacteria which rarely causes serious illness. Children do need to be infected with conditions to build immunity. However, as a father of a child with Type 1 diabetes, I understand the worry. If your child is at greater risk and there is an outbreak, it would be sensible to remove your child.
What are the main dos and don’ts if you think you have Strep A?
DO: Ring a GP and get an assessment. If confirmed, you will be given antibiotics. Complete the course. If you still don’t feel right afterwards, contact the doctor again. Isolate where possible. Maintain your food and fluid intake and take regular pain medication.
DON’T: Ignore it or go to crowded places without suitable respiratory protection.
What should you do if you can’t contact your GP?
Use the NHS 111 number or visit a pharmacy, where you will be able to get advice.
Are we likely to see more illnesses after Covid?
Yes. Infections were so low during lockdown that we are just seeing them catch up.
Ultimately, parents should be looking out for Strep A symptoms but not live in fear of the most severe outcome.
The more vigilant we are as a community, the better we are at caring for our children.
