Parents have been warned to be on the look out for symptoms of Strep A and Scarlet fever after it is being reported that at least six children have died with strep A infection since September, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The prime minister’s official spokesperson said: “We are seeing a higher number of cases of group A strep this year, compared to usual. The bacteria, we know, causes a mild infection which is easily treated with antibiotics and, in rare circumstances, it can get into the bloodstream and cause serious illness.
“It is still uncommon but it’s important parents are on the lookout for symptoms. But the NHS is well prepared to deal with situations like this, working with the UK Health Security Agency. ”
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Because it can become serious, parents who are concerned are being asked to contact the NHS.
Dr Colin Brown, Deputy Director, 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."
But what are the symptoms you need to be on the look out for and what should you do next? Here's what you need to know...
What is Strep A?
Streptococcus A - or Group A Strep (GAS) - is a bacterial infection of the throat or skin which typically arises during the winter months. And whilst most cases are mild, it can lead to more serious illness and complications, such as scarlet fever.
What is Scarlet fever?
According to the UKHSA: "Scarlet fever is caused by bacteria called group A streptococci. These bacteria also cause other respiratory and skin infections such as strep throat and impetigo.
"In very rare occasions, the bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause an illness called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). While still uncommon, there has been an increase in invasive Group A strep cases this year, particularly in children under 10."
NHS inform say that is causes a "distinctive pink-red rash" - something parents should be on the look out for.
They add: "The illness is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, also known as group A streptococcus, which are found on the skin and in the throat.
"Generally, scarlet fever is much less common than it used to be but in recent years there have been a number of significant outbreaks. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of scarlet fever so that early treatment with antibiotics can be given."
How Scarlet fever spreads
Scarlet fever is very contagious and can be caught by the following according to NHS Inform:
- Breathing in bacteria in airborne droplets from an infected person's coughs and sneezes
- Touching the skin of a person with a streptococcal skin infection, such as impetigo
- Sharing contaminated towels, baths, clothes or bed linen
- It can also be caught from carriers – people who have the bacteria in their throat or on their skin but don't have any symptoms.
Scarlet fever symptoms
NHS Inform state you should look out for the following:
- Sore throat
- Skin infection such as impetigo - caused by particular strains of streptococcus bacteria.
- Headache
- High temperature of 38.3C/101F or above
- Flushed cheeks
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Generally feeling unwell
- A white coating on the tongue, which peels a few days later leaving the tongue red and swollen (this is known as strawberry tongue)
They continue: "A day or two later the characteristic pinkish rash appears. It usually occurs on the chest and stomach before spreading to other areas of the body, such as the ears and neck.
"The symptoms of scarlet fever usually develop two to five days after infection, although the incubation period (the period between exposure to the infection and symptoms appearing) can be as short as one day or as long as seven days.
"The rash feels like sandpaper to touch and it may be itchy. On darker skin the rash may be more difficult to see although its rough texture should be apparent."
As a parent, if you feel that your child seems seriously unwell, you should trust your own judgement. Contact NHS 111 or your 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 older than 3 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
The UKHSA add: "Good hand and respiratory hygiene are important for stopping the spread of many bugs. By teaching your child how to wash their hands properly with soap for 20 seconds, using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and keeping away from others when feeling unwell, they will be able to reduce the risk of picking up or spreading infections."
You can read how to treat it on the NHS Inform website.
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