At-home kits to test for Strep A have sold out online following news that at least six children across the UK have died. The at-home testing kits were available from Amazon and some online pharmacies but many have now sold out.
Similar to the rapid Covid tests we have become accustomed to, the tests involve a long cotton swab that is lightly passed over the back of the throat. The solutions and strip test to display the result are also included.
Many parents have been flocking to pick up the tests after the UK Health Security Agency (UKSHA) confirmed that at least six children have died. One particular online pharmacy sold out of its current stocks but has agreed to take backorders for when stock becomes available.
Read more: Strep A signs parents should look out for as six UK primary school children die from infection
Group A strep bacteria can cause many different infections, including scarlet fever and strep throat. While the majority of infections are mild, the bacteria can sometimes cause a serious illness called invasive Group A Streptococcal disease.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said there has been a rise in rare invasive Group A strep this year, particularly in children under 10, with at least six deaths of under-10s in the UK since September.
Speaking on Sunday, Cabinet minister Nadhim Zahawi told Sky News: “It is really important to be vigilant because in the very rare circumstance that it becomes serious then it needs urgent treatment.
“In most cases, it will be a mild case of strep but it is highly infectious, which is why I think the important message to get across this morning is parents should look out for the symptoms, so fever, headache, skin rash.”
Health officials are urging parents to contact NHS 111 or their GP if their child is feeding or eating much less than normal, has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more or shows other signs of dehydration. They should also seek help if their baby is under three months and has a temperature of 38C, or is older than three months with a temperature of 39C or higher.
A very tired or irritable child is also a red flag. If your child is having difficulty breathing - by making grunting noises or sucking their stomach in under their ribs - or pauses in breathing, has blue skin, tongue or lips, or is floppy and unresponsive, parents should call 999 or go to A&E.
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