Following the deaths of six children in the United Kingdom. Health officials are warning parents and teachers to be on the lookout for Strep A infections. The number of Strep A infection cases in the UK has increased in the last month. Everything you need to know about his bacterial infection is right here.
The bacterium Strep A also known as Group A Streptococcus.
It is found in the throat and on the skin. It can cause a variety of infections, ranging from mild to severe. Among these diseases are: Strep throat, Scarlet fever, Impetigo, Fasciitis necrotizing, Cellulitis, Syndrome of streptococcal toxic shock, Rheumatoid arthritis, Streptococcal glomerulonephritis. also read:Elon Musk takes moderation unilateral decisions with political overtones
Common symptoms
Some people can get group A strep and not show any symptoms. These are contagious and can be spread through coughing, sneezing, and close contact. Some of the most common symptoms associated with these infections are:
– Pain when swallowing
-Fever
-Rashes on the skin
-Inflamed tonsils and glands
-Streptococcal glomerulonephritis
Risk to health
According to Beate Kampmann, professor of Paediatric Infection & Immunity and director of the Vaccine Centre at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, these infections are usually harmless.
When the bacterium produces a toxin. It can gain access to the bloodstream and cause really serious illness she said, according to CNN.
Treatment
On its website, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) defines the term invasive Group A Streptococcus (iGAS). It is used when bacteria enters the body and overcomes the body’s natural defences to enter areas such as the blood. It can be harmful to the infected person.
Antibiotics are typically effective in the treatment of Strep A and iGAS infections. There is currently no vaccine available to prevent them.
According to the UKHSA, the recent increase in cases is most likely not due to a new strain, but rather to “circulating bacteria and social mixing.” If their child appears ill with symptoms such as fever, vomiting, muscle aches, and/or a rash, parents should seek medical attention immediately.
