Group A Strep - What you need to know

In light of the considerable media coverage concerning Group A streptococcus, we are communicating the latest NHS advice to Redbridge parents who may be concerned.

Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a common bacteria. Many of us carry it in our throats and skin, and it doesn't always result in illness. However, GAS does cause a number of infections, some mild and some more serious.

GAS causes infections in the skin, soft tissue and respiratory tract. It's responsible for infections such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis, scarlet fever, impetigo and cellulitis, among others.

The most serious infections linked to GAS come from invasive group A strep, known as iGAS.

These infections are caused by the bacteria getting into parts of the body where it is not commonly found, such as the lungs or bloodstream. In rare cases, an iGAS infection can be fatal. Whilst iGAS infections are still uncommon, there has been an increase in cases this year, particularly in children under ten and, sadly, a small number of deaths.

Contact NHS 111 or your GP 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 baby is under three months and has a temperature of 38°C, or is older than three months and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
• your baby feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest or feels sweaty
• your child is very tired or irritable

 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
  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

  Cllr Mark Santos, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said: “Parents should be on the lookout for symptoms and speak to a doctor as quickly as possible so their child can be treated and can stop the infection from becoming severe. 

"You should also talk to a health professional if your child is showing signs of deteriorating after a bout of scarlet fever, a sore throat, or a respiratory infection."

Find out everything you need to know about Group A Strep.