Streptococcus A: Parents warned to look out for these symptoms as cases of scarlet fever rise

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Health officials are urging parents to look out for symptoms of scarlet fever in their children after an increase in cases driven by the recent surge in Strep A infections.

At least 16 children have died from a form of the invasive bacteria in recent weeks, while cases of scarlet fever, caused by Strep A infection, have risen.

The disease is caused by a type of bacteria called group A Streptococcus. These bacteria also cause other respiratory and skin infections, such as strep throat and herpes.

In rare cases, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause a disease called invasive group A strep (iGAS). Although still uncommon, there has been an increase in invasive Strep A cases this year, particularly in children under the age of 10.

While scarlet fever is usually a mild illness, it is highly contagious. But what are the signs to look for? How worried are the parents? Our guide below may help answer some of your questions.

How many cases of Strep A are there?

The UKHSA has confirmed an increase in the number of invasive cases of group A strep this year, particularly in children under 10, which it says is likely to be caused by a high level of circulating bacteria combined with social contact. .

The data shows a rate of 2.3 cases per 100,000 children ages one to four, compared to an average of 0.5 cases in the three seasons prior to the pandemic (2017 to 2019), and 1.1 cases per 100,000 children ages five to nine, compared to an average of 0.3. .

So far this season, five deaths have been recorded within seven days of diagnosis in children under the age of 10 in England. Another death occurred in Wales in that age group.

During the last peak season for group A infections (2017-18), there were four deaths among children under the age of 10 in the same period.

What are the symptoms of scarlet fever?

Health officials say symptoms to look for in your child include sore throat, headache, and fever, along with a mild, pink or red rash with the texture of sandpaper. On darker skin, the rash may be difficult to spot visually but will still be felt with sandpaper.

The UKHSA advises that you contact NHS 111 or your GP if you suspect your child has scarlet fever, as early treatment of the disease with antibiotics is important in reducing the risk of complications such as pneumonia or bloodstream infection.

If your child has scarlet fever, keep them home until at least 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection to others.

When should I seek medical help?

Although scarlet fever clears up in most cases without medical intervention, children can sometimes develop a bacterial infection on top of the virus, and this can make them more unwell. As a parent, if you feel your child appears seriously ill, you should trust your own judgment, says the UKHSA.

Health officials say you should contact NHS 111 or your GP if:

Your baby is getting worse Your baby is feeding or eating much less than usual Your baby has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more, or shows other signs of dehydration Your baby is less than 3 months old and has a temperature of 38°C, or is greater than 3 months and a temperature A temperature of 39°C or higher Your child feels hotter than usual when you touch his back or chest, or feels sweaty. Your child is very tired or irritable.

In more serious cases, you should call 999 or go to A&E if:

Your child is having trouble breathing – you may notice grunting sounds or their stomach sucking under their ribs. There are pauses when your child is breathing, your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue, your child is floppy and won’t wake up or stay awake

How to ward off a possible infection

Good hand and respiratory hygiene are important to stop the spread of many insects. By teaching your child how to properly wash their hands with soap for 20 seconds, use a tissue for coughing and sneezing, and move away from others when feeling unwell, they will be able to reduce the risk of catching or spreading infection. .

Dr Colin Brown, deputy director at the UKHSA, said: “We’re seeing more cases of group A Strep this year than usual. The bacteria usually cause a mild infection, leading to strep throat or scarlet fever, which can easily be treated with antibiotics.” Very rarely, these bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause a serious illness – called invasive group A strep (iGAS).

“This is still uncommon, but it is important for parents to be aware of the symptoms and to go to the doctor as soon as possible so that their child can be treated and we can prevent the infection from becoming serious.

“Be sure to speak to a health professional if your child shows signs of deteriorating after a bout of scarlet fever, strep throat, or a respiratory infection.”

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