What is Strep A? Known about the deadly scarlet fever that has claimed lives of several kids in UK

After the Covid-19 pandemic, the UK is under the thrall of a new epidemic.

A seemingly mild, yet deadly bacterial infection has killed quite a few children in recent weeks. According to a report by The Guardian, about nine children in the UK have died from the fever, and 487 were diagnosed with the disease.

What Is Strep A?

Strep A refers to Strep A Streptococcus bacteria which causes an infection known as streptococcal pharyngitis (known as strep throat or scarlet fever in layman terms). In most cases, the infection tends to be mild, but serious infections can also occur. Infections caused by iGAS, a more invasive group of Strep A, can turn life-threatening. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), IGAS occurs when the bacteria penetrates deeper into the body and infects the lungs, muscles, and enters the bloodstream. “Whilst iGAS infections are still uncommon, there has been an increase in cases this year, particularly in children under 10, and sadly, a small number of deaths,” the UKHSA stated recently.

What Are The Symptoms Of Strep A?

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

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

Parents should consult medical help if:

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

How Is The Disease Transmitted?
It is an infectious disease so it spreads through physical contact such as touching or hugging. If someone in close proximity coughs, that can also lead to you contracting the infection. The bacteria can also enter the body through contaminated food. As always, people with underlying health conditions such as cardiac problems, kidney and lung conditions, and chronic illnesses such as cancer are more vulnerable to infection.

According to medical experts, children and the elderly are more vulnerable to infection as they tend to have poor immunity. “Rates of iGAS are highest at extremes of age — in children and the elderly, this may reflect immunity,” said Michael Marks, an associate professor at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine told the 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

Ensure your child washes their hands after coughing and before eating.
Teach them to use a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Used tissues should be deposited in the dustbin.
Use alcohol-based sanitiser.