Six children in the United Kingdom have died from an invasive infection with streptococci A, specifically the scarlet fever bacteria, a benign disease whose incidence in the country is on the rise, health authorities said on Friday. The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) has urged parents to be vigilant after five deaths in England this season in children under 10 within seven days of being diagnosed with invasive group A strep infection. The sixth case of death was registered in Wales.
Multiple cases of scarlet fever
In the last season of Strep A infection (2017-2018), four cases of death of children under 10 years of age were recorded in England. Health authorities are seeing an increase in this type of invasive infection compared to the seasons before the Covid-19 pandemic. Streptococci A can cause mild or fatal infections, especially when they reach the bloodstream, such as tonsillitis, impetigo (a skin infection) and scarlet fever. Health authorities are also investigating after reports of serious respiratory infections caused by the bacteria.
Nevertheless, “there is no evidence that a new strain is circulating“Explains the British agency, considering that the probable reason for the increase in the number of infections is the increase in the circulation of bacteria and contacts. Scarlet fever, a generally mild but highly contagious disease, has seen a sharp increase, with 851 cases reported in the week of November 14-20, compared with an average of 186 during the same period in previous years.
Streptococci cause A”usually a mild infection, sore throat, or scarlet fever that can be easily treated with antibioticsHealth Security Agency Deputy Director Dr. Colin Brown emphasized in a press release. “In rare cases, this bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause serious illnesses called invasive strep A infections.“, the rest”rareHe added that he urges parents to monitor symptoms and consult as soon as possible so that their children can be treated quickly before the infection becomes serious.
Source: Le Figaro
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