During the winter months we naturally see an increase in infections and viruses due to the cold weather. However, recently we have seen an unusual increase of the infection Group A Strep in young children. You may have heard this in the news.
Group A Strep is the name given to a type of bacteria sometimes found in the throat or on the skin. It usually causes mild illness like sore throats and skin infections. Rarely these bacteria can cause severe and life-threatening illness called invasive Group A Streptococcal disease.
The test for Group A Strep is a swab taken from the back of the throat, which health professionals call a diagnostic test as it helps to diagnose the problem. This is then sent to a hospital which has a pathology laboratory where a microbiologist will spread the swab on a petri-dish which will allow the infection to grow in a controlled environment. After 24 hours, the microbiologist will check the dish to confirm the infection.
Most infections are identified this way so pathology departments play a vital role in patient care, ensuring these tests are done quickly so patients can get the right treatment as soon as possible. With Group A Strep, the treatment is usually antibiotics as it can cause Scarlet Fever, Cellulitis and Impetigo.
To limit the spread of infection, good hand and respiratory hygiene is encouraged for younger children. By teaching children how to wash their hands properly with soap for at least 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.
If children show the following signs, contact NHS 11 or your GP:
- A temperature has lasted more than 5 days
- feeding or eating much less than normal, especially if they are drooling or appear in pain when swallowing
- has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more, or is crying without tears
- or your child shows other signs of dehydration
- feeling thirsty
- dark yellow, strong-smelling pee
- peeing less often than usual
- feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- feeling tired
- a dry mouth, lips and tongue
- sunken eyes (dark circles under eyes)
- 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
- feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
- is drowsy (much more sleepy than normal) or irritable (unable to settle them with cuddles, toys, TV or snacks – especially if they remain drowsy or irritable despite any fever coming down)
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 or using their neck muscles to breathe
- there are long pauses (more than 10 seconds) when your child breathes
- your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
- your child feels very cold or clammy to touch
- your child is difficult to wake up or keep awake
- your child has severe pains in their arms, legs neck or back
- your child has a painful, red area of skin, especially if it is getting bigger quickly