Strep A – what is it and what should you look out for?

As a result of people mixing again following the lifting of Covid restrictions, infections and illnesses are spreading. BBC News has reported that a fourth child has died of Strep A bacterial disease.

Strep A is a bacteria which most people have on their skin or in their throats which is harmless for the majority of the time, but this bacteria can spread to others through coughs and sneezes.

Schools and places where people gather in close proximity can be the source of outbreaks.

What are the symptoms of Strep A?

• sore throat
• temperature
• flu–like symptoms.

The majority of the time, these symptoms are mild, but they can lead to a more serious infection such as Scarlet Fever. Scarlet Fever usually affects young children and does need medical assistance.

Scarlet Fever has the same symptoms as Strep A but additionally, look out for:

• rash – which can appear on the body and can look a bit like a strawberry in shape.

Strep A can also cause Invasive group A streptococcal infection (iGAS). People with immune deficiency or are already ill can be affected. This infection is extremely dangerous, and people who develop the following warning signs require immediate medical attention:

• fever (over 38°C)
• severe muscle aches
• pain in one area of the body
• unexplained vomiting or diarrhea.

Amanda Cavanagh, Associate in the Medical Negligence team at Ashtons Legal, comments: “With winter coming and the usual coughs and colds, I urge everyone to consider the above. Strep A can cause Sepsis and can be a deadly disease. Sadly, sometimes the danger signs are overlooked by medical staff. Therefore please, if you are concerned about an adult or child with any of the above symptoms, seek urgent medical help and ask the question, could it be sepsis?”