So what is Strep A and why is it so dangerous?

What is Strep A?

GROUP A Streptococcus is the name for a type of bacteria that can cause many different infections, the vast majority of which are mild. The bacteria are commonly found in the throat and on skin, and some people have no symptoms. Infections caused by Strep A range from minor illnesses to serious and deadly diseases such as scarlet fever and strep throat.

How many cases?

THERE were 8 1 weekly cases reported a fortnight ago. An average of 186 cases were recorded in the same week in previous years.

How does it spread?

THE bacteria are spread by close contact with an infected person. The risk of their spread is greatest when somebody is ill.

Why such an increase?

EXPERTS have said lockdowns may be to blame as children shuttered away have less immunity. Dr Simon Clarke, from the University of Reading, said the surge in cases may be a ‘statistical blip’.

What’s ‘invasive’ Strep?

INVASIVE Group A Strep disease is a sometimes life-threatening infection in which the bacteria have invaded parts of the body, such as the blood, deep muscle or lungs. Two of the most severe, but rare, forms are necrotising fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.

Can it be treated?

SCARLET fever and impetigo are treated with antibiotics. Anyone thought to have invasive Strep should seek medical help immediately.

Should I see a doctor?

STREP throat is different from a regular sore throat and pain can come on very quickly. Symptoms include fever and red, swollen tonsils. The NHS recommends seeing a GP if a sore throat does not improve after a week, or if the patient has a temperature, or feels hot and shivery. Scarlet fever symptoms are often flu-like, including a temperature, a sore throat and swollen neck glands.