Strep A- advice for parents/carers Please read all this information Strep A is a bacteria that causes infections such as sore throat, scarlet fever, and skin infections like impetigo. Strep A infections are seen every year, usually in the early spring, and the bacteria is spread through snot and spit. Most Strep A infections are very mild and can be easily treated with antibiotics. In very rare cases, the bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause an illness called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). These are the cases that have been in the news recently. This year, we are seeing an increase in scarlet fever (caused by Strep A) earlier than we might expect. Whilst still very rare, we are also seeing an increase in invasive Group A Strep cases. There are also several other winter bugs going around; so not all poorly children will have Strep A. Many of these other winter bugs are caused by viruses and cannot be treated with antibiotics. Most winter bugs, with coughs, sneezing, and sore throat, can be managed at home. We have described the symptoms of scarlet fever and what you should do below. Symptoms of scarlet fever: • • • • • • • • •
High fever (feeling hotter than usual on the back or chest, feeling sweaty) Difficulty swallowing Sore swollen lymph nodes (glands) Sore neck or throat Headache Feeling sick Being sick Feeling tired or unwell Flushed red face, but pale around the mouth
Followed 12-48 hours later by: • • •
Small, red, widespread rash. The rash gives the skin a rough sandpaper-like feel. Tongue rash has strawberry-like appearance. On darker skin the rash may be more difficult to see but will still have a sandpaper-like feel. Please see NHS online for more information.
Complications from scarlet fever are rare and the risks made less by antibiotic treatment. However, they can happen during or in the weeks after the infection, and can include ear infection, throat swelling, sinusitis, lung infection, meningitis, and rheumatic fever (which can affect the joints and heart). What should I do if my child has these symptoms, or I am worried? You should contact your GP if your child has the symptoms of scarlet fever.