Strep A infection kills 2 children in Scotland as total death toll rises to 7

Seven patients have died of Strep A since October 3 in Scotland. Public Health Scotland has said the organisation is aware of all the cases. Out of these seven individuals, two were children below the age of 10.

Humza Yousaf, Health Secretary, Scotland, tweeted that every death is a tragedy, particularly those of young children adding that his thoughts are with families and loved ones affected. Majority cases of Strep A being mild and treatable, projects a silver lining. Humza added that his department is working with the UK government to ensure adequate supplies of antibiotics.

Strep A is short for Group A Streptococcus. This disease is caused by the bacteria called GAS (group A streptococcal infections) and iGAS (invasive group A streptococcal infections). While the majority of strep A cases are the mild GAS, these recent deaths have been caused by the rare, but dangerous iGAS.




Although the cases of Strep A have more than doubled since 2016, cases have reduced since last year. Public Health Scotland reports a reduction to 869 cases as compared to 1,079 of last year.

Strep A infections can spread through close contact with infected people. They pass through wounds, coughs or sneezes. One should take the following precautions to avoid getting, and spreading the infection:

• Regular handwashing with soap or using sanitizers.
• Covering mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
• Throw away, or wash the contaminated materials immediately after use.

FAQs:

1. How do you get streptococcal A?
   Strep A spreads through respiratory droplets.
2. How do you treat group A strep?
   Penicillin is the choice of drug for treatment.