Strep A: Investigation Launched into Death of Child in Powys with Potential Link to Strep A Infection

Public Health Wales have confirmed the death of a child in Powys is being investigated for whether it is linked to the Strep A infection

So far, more than a dozen deaths have been linked to Strep A in the UK since September
Author: Claire BoadPublished 14th Dec 2022

Authorities say they are investigating the death of a child in Powys to see whether it is linked to the Strep A infection.

Public Health Wales, Powys Teaching Health Board and Powys County Council say they launched the investigation after the 'recent death of a child in Powys'.

In a statement, Dr Ardiana Gjini from public health wales says parents 'must be vigilant for signs and symptoms of scarlet fever and Group A streptococcal disease (Strep A)'.

She says 'We offer our deepest condolences to the family, friends and all those affected'.

She also says that whilst Pubic Health Wales cannot comment on any individual cases, 'People identified for public health action have already been contacted and provided with appropriate treatment and advice. Individuals who have not been contacted do not need to take any specific action.'

Finally, Dr Gjini says it's important for people know that 'while we understand that parents are likely to be worried, cases of invasive group A streptococcal infection remain rare in Wales, and children have a very low risk of contracting the disease.'

So far there have been more than a dozen deaths linked to the Strep A infection in the UK since September.

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