The rate of scarlet fever in the East Midlands is currently higher than the national average after the death of a ninth UK child from Strep A. Scarlet fever is caused by a bacteria called group A streptococci and in some cases, these bacteria can cause invasive Group A Strep (iGAS).
It is this latter illness which has now claimed the lives of nine young people and which has led health authorities to urge parents to look out for symptoms in their children. Nottinghamshire parents have been told to use their instinct when deciding whether or not to contact a doctor about their child.
Figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) now show that the rate of scarlet fever per 100,000 people in the East Midlands stands at 11.9. That's higher than the national average of just 8.2
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The figures relate to the first part of the 2022/23 season, which runs from mid-September to mid-September. They also show that the rate of iGAS per 100,000 people is 0.8, marginally below the national average of 0.9.
Dr Colin Brown, Deputy Director of the UKHSA, said: "We are seeing a higher number of cases of Group A strep this year than usual. The bacteria usually causes a mild infection producing sore throats or scarlet fever that can be easily treated with antibiotics.
"In very rare circumstances, this bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause serious illness – called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). This is still uncommon, however, it is important that parents are on the lookout for symptoms and see a doctor as quickly as possible so that their child can be treated and we can stop the infection becoming serious. Make sure you talk to a health professional if your child is showing signs of deteriorating after a bout of scarlet fever, a sore throat, or a respiratory infection."
Parents are told to call 999 or go to A&E if their child is having difficult breathing, if their skin, tongue or lips or blue and if they will not wake up or stay awake. Other symptoms include a high temperature and reduced appetite.
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