Scarlet fever and group A Streptococcal infection (GAS), including invasive GAS, have been at lower levels than normal for the last 2 years during the pandemic. This year, the spike in infection in spring lasted longer, and the spike expected in winter has started earlier and is resulting in higher levels of infection than normally expected at this time of year, particularly in younger children.
The latest public guidance from the UKHSA is available and a helpful UKHSA blog is also available. The current guidance for parents and carers is as follows:
It’s always concerning when a child is unwell. GAS infections cause various symptoms such as sore throat, fever, chills and muscle aches.
As a parent, if you feel that your child seems seriously unwell, you should trust your own judgement.
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
How can we stop infections from spreading?
Good hand and respiratory hygiene are important for stopping the spread of many bugs. By teaching your child how to wash their hands properly with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and keeping away from others when feeling unwell, they will be able to reduce the risk of picking up, or spreading, infections.
Dr Ranj Explains all!
Information for parents on Strep A, Dr Ranj Singh explains what to look for: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=woLaB96oK6U
