Group A Strep and Scarlet Fever
Group A Strep (GAS) cases are on the rise this winter. Keep up to date with symptoms and preventative measures.
Like many hospitals, we have seen an increase in concerned parents or guardians seeking health advice and support following media reports on an increase Group A Streptococci (GAS, Strep A, also known as Strep throat) and Scarlet Fever in young children. Fortunately, these cases are very rare, but as you may have seen in the news there have been a small number of cases across the country where children have become very sick, very quickly.
For latest information see updates from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
With lots of winter viruses circulating at this time of year, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms to be aware of.
We would like to advise families to contact NHS 111 of their local GP in the first instance if they are concerned if their child is unwell with mild symptoms.
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. Scarlet fever is usually a mild illness, but it is highly infectious. Therefore, look out for symptoms in your child, which include a sore throat, headache, and fever, along with a fine, pinkish or red body rash with a sandpapery feel. On darker skin, the rash can be more difficult to detect visually but will have a sandpapery feel.
Please refer to the NHS website for information on what Strep A and Scarlet Fever symptoms to look out for and what course of action is recommended.
If you suspect your child has Strep A or Scarlet Fever, contact NHS 111 or your GP as a course of antibiotics is normally the course of treatment and reduces risks.
As a parent, if you feel that your child seems seriously unwell, you should trust your own judgement and contact NHS 111 or your GP if:
- Your child is getting worse
- They are feeding or eating much less than normal
- Your child shows signs of dehydration
- If your child is a baby 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
- If a baby feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
- Or if the child is very tired or irritable
Parents are urged to Call 999 or go to A&E if their child:
- is having difficulty breathing – making grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs
- if there are pauses when the child breathes
- if a child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
- or if the child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake
Cases of invasive Group A Strep (iGAS) are rare, to read more about GAS and iGAS, and who is more vulnerable to contracting this see the UKHSA blog.
As is often the case, good hand and respiratory hygiene are important for stopping the spread of many bugs. The UKHSA is also encouraging parents to ensure children 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.
For regular updates please refer to the UKHSA guidelines.