Surge In Cases Of Deadly Brain Invading Bug Across Uk Prompts Urgent Calls To Protect Children From Cr

Surge in cases of deadly ‘brain-invading’ bug across UK prompts urgent calls to protect children from ‘cruel’ Strep A

Parents have been warned to be vigilant for symptoms after an ‘alarming’ rise in cases of Strep A

There have been 19 deaths in the UK this year from the bacterial infection, which is typically mild but can lead to life-threatening complications. More than 17,000 cases were recorded in England alone between September and December, with rates in children under 10 and babies under one particularly high.

Health officials say the increase in cases could be due to a number of factors, including a ‘very high’ rate of scarlet fever infections, which is caused by the same bacteria as Strep A.

Symptoms of Strep A

Symptoms of Strep A include a sore throat, headache, and fever. In more severe cases, it can cause scarlet fever, which is characterized by a rash that feels like sandpaper.

In rare cases, Strep A can lead to life-threatening complications, such as pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis. If you think your child may have Strep A, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

How to prevent Strep A

There is no vaccine for Strep A, but there are a number of things you can do to help prevent infection, including:

*

Washing your hands frequently with soap and water *

Covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze *

Avoiding close contact with people who are sick *

Keeping your child up to date on their vaccinations

What to do if you think your child has Strep A

If you think your child may have Strep A, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of Strep A can be similar to those of other illnesses, so it is important to get a diagnosis from a doctor.

Treatment for Strep A typically involves antibiotics. It is important to take all of the antibiotics as prescribed, even if your child starts to feel better. This will help to prevent the infection from coming back.

Conclusion

Strep A is a serious infection, but it can be treated with antibiotics. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of Strep A and to seek medical attention immediately if you think your child may have the infection.