The Government has updated its Strep A guidance for parents and carers after 15 children have now sadly died from the invasive illness.
Strep A, or Group A Streptococcus as it’s also known, is a bacteria most commonly found in the throat and nose that can lead to numerous infections such as scarlet fever, tonsillitis and impetigo.
The bacterium is very common and lots of people will have it unknowingly but in some cases, it can spread to others who may have an increased chance of becoming ill from the infection. However, in most cases health issues caused by Strep A are mild.
READ MORE: Would you support schools closing due to Strep A?
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has now updated its guidance as to when parents or caregivers should call 111 or their GP. Gov.uk advice states: "Contact NHS 111 or your GP if you suspect your child has scarlet fever, because early treatment of scarlet fever with antibiotics is important to reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia or a bloodstream infection. If your child has scarlet fever, keep them at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection to others."
Parents should also "trust their own judgement" and call 111 or contact a GP if:
- your child is getting worse
- your child is feeding or eating much less than normal
- your child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more or shows other signs of dehydration
- your baby is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38°C, or is 3 to 6 months and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
- your baby feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
- your child is very tired or irritable
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- your child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs
- there are pauses when your child breathes
- your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
- your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake
Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what's on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here
READ NEXT:
DWP claimants could soon be handed extra £774 each
Cheapest supermarket in the UK named - and its not Lidl, Tesco or Asda
DWP benefit claimants including Pensions, PIP and DLA set to see cash boost this week
Roman Kemp nearly 'banned' from Loose Women after comments
Peter Kay fans spot problem as he adds more UK tour dates in Liverpool
