STREP A: WHAT TO DO AS A PARENT
Group A streptococcus—known colloquially as Strep A—is a common bacteria found on the skin and in the throat. While many people carry the bacteria without experiencing problems, it can lead to several infections of varying severity, including impetigo, strep throat and scarlet fever.
Although most Strep A infections are relatively mild, the bacteria can cause life-threatening illness when it reaches parts of the body it shouldn’t. When this occurs, such infection is known as invasive group A streptococcal disease (iGAS). The UK has seen an uptick in Strep A infections and iGAS cases in the autumn of 2022, particularly in children under 10, and parents are understandably concerned.
This article discusses Strep A infections and outlines related illness symptoms to be aware of.
Invasive Group A Streptococcal Disease (iGAS) Explained
In most cases, Strep A causes sore throats or skin infections that are easily treatable with antibiotics. However, in rare cases, Strep A bacteria invades the body and gets into places where it’s not normally found, such as the bloodstream or lungs. These cases can cause severe illness, or even death.
While iGAS is generally uncommon, the number of cases reported in autumn of 2022 has been several-fold higher than pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels. Although it’s not clear what is causing the surge in cases, it might be a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, sudden mixing following periods of social distancing could be causing diseases to circulate at higher levels. Additionally, children who were less able to build vital immunity to childhood diseases during lockdowns may now be more susceptible to infection.
However, these reasons are merely speculation and are not yet backed by data. The government is currently conducting enhanced surveillance to establish a scientific basis for the recent increase in serious Strep A infections.
In the meantime, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging parents to be alert for the signs of any Strep A infection and take appropriate action.
Strep A Infection Symptoms
Strep A infections—even iGAS cases—are treatable if managed early, so swift identification is crucial. Unfortunately, early Strep A symptoms mimic other common viral infections, making it difficult to spot. Moreover, Strep A symptoms vary depending on the illness the bacteria causes.
One notable Strep A disease is scarlet fever. The first signs of scarlet fever are a high temperature, a sore throat and swollen neck glands. Within 12 to 48 hours a raised bumpy rash—that feels like sandpaper—usually follows, appearing initially on the chest and tummy.
With an iGAS case, early signs include high fever, severe muscle aches, pain in one area of the body and unexplained vomiting or diarrhoea. If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, seek urgent medical assistance. Furthermore, if you’re not sure what action to take, the UKHSA has provided the following guidance:
Contact your GP or the NHS 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 child is under three months and has a temperature of 38C, or is older than three months and has a temperature of 39C or higher.
• Your baby feels sweaty or hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest.
• Your child is very tired or irritable.
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
• Your child is having difficulty breathing.
• 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.
Conclusion
The autumn of 2022 has seen Strep A circulating in the UK at levels higher than expected. Fortunately, in most cases, children will experience mild symptoms that can be easily treated with antibiotics. However, Strep A can develop into a severe invasive infection. As such, it’s vital that you stay abreast of UKHSA advice and remain vigilant for symptoms. Trust your own instincts; if your child is unwell and something doesn’t feel right, contact a medical professional without delay.
