Black Country GPs have issued advice to parents and carers following concerns about a national rise in group A strep infections.
Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a common type of bacteria that many people carry in their throats and on skin. It does not always cause illness, but it can cause infections, some mild and some more serious.
In very rare cases, the bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause an illness called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). While still uncommon, there has been an increase in iGAS cases this year, particularly in children under 10.
Local doctors are advising people to stay vigilant to the signs and symptoms of infection in their children, and to use NHS services for support where appropriate.
Dr Tania Hussain, GP clinical lead for children and young people in the Black Country, said: “There are a lot of viral infections circulating this winter which may present with a sore throat, cough and/or a cold. Most of these illnesses are self-limiting and children will recover well. However, occasionally this may be a bacterial illness, caused by bacteria such as GAS.
“Parents are understandably worried as the symptoms for GAS can be so similar to these common viral infections.
“Most winter bugs are best treated at home with over-the-counter medicines, however if your child’s symptoms don’t respond, or are getting worse, then please contact NHS 111 for advice.
“The most important thing is to trust your judgment as a parent. You know your child, and if you feel that something just isn’t right, don’t be put off from seeking medical advice – the NHS is here for you."
One of the more well-known infections caused by GAS is scarlet fever. This is usually a mild illness, but it is highly infectious.
Symptoms 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 harder to see but it will feel sandpapery to the touch.
Contact NHS 111 or your GP if you suspect your child has scarlet fever, because early treatment with antibiotics is important to reduce the risk of complications. You should keep your child at home for least 24 hours after they start on antibiotics to avoid spreading the infection to others.
You should also contact NHS 111 or your GP if:
• your child is getting worse
• your child is feeding or eating much less than normal
• your child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more or shows other signs of dehydration
• your baby is 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
• your baby feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
• your child is very tired or irritable.
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
• your child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs
• there are pauses when your child breathes
• your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
• your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake.
NHS 111 online is a useful resource to direct you to the best place to go for further help or advice. Simply input your symptoms at any time of day for instant guidance on the NHS service that is right for you, including – if you need it – a call back from a clinician who can give you advice or book you an appointment if appropriate. Visit 111.nhs.uk to get started.
