NHS bosses in Sussex reassure parents and carers worried about Strep A
A school pupil in Hove is the latest child to have died with the infection
Last updated 10th Dec 2022
NHS bosses in Sussex are reassuring parents and carers who may be worried about a rise in cases of Strep A.
Group A streptococcus, known as Strep A, is a common bacteria that can in some cases become more serious.
Sixteen deaths have been reported across the country since September including, most recently, a child at a school in Hove.
It can cause a range of infections such as Scarlet Fever, which is best to be treated with antibiotics before bacteria gets into the lungs or bloodstream.
Dr Dinesh Sinha, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Sussex, said: “Infection with Strep A bacteria usually causes a sore throat, scarlet fever or skin rash and is passed by physical contact or through droplets from sneezing or coughing.
“In very rare cases, the infection can become invasive and enter parts of the body where bacteria aren’t normally found, which can be serious.
“I would stress that most people who come into contact with Strep A infections remain well and symptom-free and most illnesses that are caused by it are mild.
“However, anyone who feels their child is seriously unwell should contact NHS 111.”
Health workers claim more people have been asking for advice and treatment from local services, but most have been for milder illnesses like colds and coughs which have similar symptoms.
Anyone concerned about their child’s health can call 111 directly or visit the NHS website where a detailed list of symptoms can be found.