Officials from the Health Department are encouraging parents to be on the lookout for it symptomsFrom scarlet feverFollowing an increase in cases due to Strep A, the children were more likely to contract it.
At least 16 childrenHe died from an invasive form the bacteria in recent days, while cases have risen of scarlet fever caused Strep A infections.
Group A Streptococcus bacteria is responsible for the disease. These bacteria can also cause skin and respiratory infections such as herpes and strep throat.
Rarely, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause an infection called invasive group a strep. Although it is still rare, there has been an increase of invasive Strep A cases in recent years, especially among children under 10 years old.
Scarlet fever is a mild illness that is often not contagious. What are the signs to watch for? How concerned should parents be? You may find the answer to your questions in our guide below.
How many cases are there of Strep A?
The UKHSA has confirmed that there have been an increase in cases of group A strep among children under 10 years old. This is due to a combination of high levels of circulating bacteria and social contacts. .
The data shows that there were 2.3 cases per 100,000 infants ages 1 to 4, compared to 0.5 cases in the three previous seasons (2017 to 2019), and that there were 1.1 cases per 100,000 children five to nine years old, compared against an average 0.3.
Five deaths in the first seven days after diagnosis have been reported in England for children under 10 years old. In that age group, another death was recorded in Wales.
Four children under 10 died in the same time period during the peak season for group A infection (2017-18).
What are the symptoms and signs of scarlet fever
According to health officials, the most common symptoms in children are a sore throat and headache. They also recommend looking out for a mild, pink, or red rash that has the texture of sandpaper. The rash can be more difficult to spot on darker skin but can still be felt using sandpaper.
The UKHSA recommends you contact NHS 111 or your GP if scarlet fever is suspected in your child. This is because early treatment with antibiotics can reduce the risk of complications such a bloodstream infection or pneumonia.
Scarlet fever is a serious infection that can spread to other children. Keep your child home until they are fully recovered.
When should I seek medical attention?
Although scarlet fever is usually treated with medical intervention and resolves quickly, some children may develop a bacterial infection that can make them more sick. The UKHSA advises parents to trust their own judgment if they feel that their child is seriously ill.
According to health officials, you should contact NHS 111 and your GP if you have any questions.
- Your child is getting worse
- Your baby is eating less than usual.
- Your baby’s nappy is dry for 12 hours or more, or has other signs of dehydration
- Your baby is less than 3 months old and has a temperature of 38°C, or is older than 3 months and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
- You may notice that your baby feels hotter than usual if you touch his chest or back.
- Your child is very tired and irritable
If you have more serious issues, call 999.
- You may notice your baby struggling to breathe. He might make grunting or feel his stomach sucking under his ribs.
- There are pauses in your child’s breathing.
- Your baby’s skin is blue, as well as his tongue and lips.
- Your baby is floppy, won’t get up, or stay awake.
How to avoid an infection
To stop the spread and spread of many insects, good hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene is essential. You can help your child avoid spreading or catching an infection by teaching him how to properly wash his hands with soap for 20 seconds. .
Dr Colin Brown, the UKHSA’s deputy director, stated that “We are seeing more cases this year of group A Strep than usual.” The bacteria can cause mild infections, such as strep throat and scarlet fever. These conditions can be easily treated with antibiotics. Rarely, these bacteria can enter your bloodstream and cause serious illness. This is called invasive group A strept (iGAS).
“This is not a common condition. However, it is important for parents that they are aware of the symptoms. They should also make an appointment to see a doctor as soon as possible to get their child treated. This will help prevent the infection becoming more serious.
“If your child has signs of deterioration due to scarlet fever, severe strep throat, respiratory infection, or other conditions, it is important to contact a healthcare professional immediately.
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