By Strep A cases emerge in Lincolnshire
Around five cases of Strep A have now emerged in Lincolnshire.
Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a common bacteria, which reportedly is carried in throats and on skin, from UK Health Security Agency information.
Lincolnshire’s Director for Public Health, Professor Derek Ward, told BBC Radio Lincolnshire on Tuesday that “a few cases” have emerged in Lincolnshire, confirming that the figure is less than five.
United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust CEO Andrew Morgan cited an “anecdotal increase” in A&E attendances from individuals concerned with symptoms of Strep A, which Mr Morgan suggests is a result of increased media coverage.
The UKHSA’s statutory notifications for infectious diseases said there were 14 cases of scarlet fever reported in Lincolnshire, for the week ending December 4.
According to the UKHSA’s statutory notifications for infectious diseases, 14 cases of scarlet fever were reported in Lincolnshire for the week ending December 4, and one case of invasive GAS in South Holland.
GAS can cause a number of infections when bacteria makes it into parts of the body where it is not normally found, such as the lungs or bloodstream.
UKHSA guidelines state: “It isn’t possible to say for certain what is causing higher than usual rates of these infections.
“There is likely a combination of factors, including increased social mixing compared to the previous years as well as increases in other respiratory viruses.”
Symptoms of GAS include a fever, chills, muscle aches and a sore throat, this can sometimes lead to scarlet fever.
Parents can call NHS 111 or your GP if your child’s condition worsens, they are eating much less than normal, have a temperature over 39C or if they are very tired or irritable.
(Image: Kelly Sikkema/Unsplash)
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