streptococcus: What is streptococcus A? Known for the deadly scarlet fever which claimed the lives of several children in the UK

A seemingly mild but deadly bacterial infection has killed quite a few children in recent weeks. According to a report by
The Guardianaround nine children in the UK have died of fever and 487 have been diagnosed with the disease.

What is strep A?

Strep A refers to Streptococcus A Streptococcus bacteria that causes an infection known as strep throat (called strep throat or scarlet fever in simple terms). In most cases, the infection tends to be mild, but serious infections can also occur. Infections caused by iSGA, a more invasive group of Strep A, can be life-threatening. According to UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), ALL occurs when the bacterium penetrates deeper into the body and infects the lungs, muscles and enters the bloodstream. “While GAS infections are still rare, there has been an increase in cases this year, particularly in children under 10, and unfortunately a small number of deaths,” said the UKHSA stated recently.

What are the symptoms of strep A?

The most frustrating thing about this disease is that it is very hard to detect. According to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in most cases, symptoms of strep A infection coincide with common flu, such as sore throat and fever. However, here are some of the symptoms you can watch out for:

• Intense headaches
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Swollen lymph nodes on the neck.
• Pus-filled blisters or inflammation of the skin.

Parents should consult
medical help if:

• The child eats much less than usual.
• Fevers persist even after a week.
• The child complains of dehydration.
• Has difficulty breathing.
• If his tongue and skin turn blue.

How is the disease transmitted?
It is an infectious disease that is spread through physical contact, such as touching or hugging. If someone nearby is coughing, that can also lead to you getting the infection. Bacteria can also enter the body through contaminated food. As always, people with underlying health conditions such as heart problems, kidney and lung problems, and chronic diseases such as cancer are more vulnerable to infections.

According to medical experts, children and the elderly are more vulnerable to infections because they tend to have low immunity. “iSGA levels are highest at extreme ages – in children and the elderly this may reflect immunity,” said Michael Marks, associate professor at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.
Washington Post.

Can strep A be treated?

There is currently no Strep A vaccine available. In most cases, antibiotics are prescribed.

Here’s how you can avoid getting infected

Make sure your child washes their hands after coughing and before eating.

Teach them to use a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Used tissues must be placed in the trash.

Use an alcohol-based sanitizer.