The Superintendent Pharmacist at Boots offers some words of wisdom and reassurance to parents regarding Strep A.
Laire Nevinson exhibits all of the classic signs and symptoms of strep throat. An infection that should be on the lookout for, as well as what a parent should do if they notice symptoms in their child and how to stop the spread of strep. In response to an increase in the number of cases of Group A Strep reported among children in the UK, a Boots Superintendent Pharmacist is providing her guidance to parents on how they can recognise the symptoms of the infection.
What signs and symptoms should one watch out for?
“The A Group” Strep throat is a common name for the sore throat and fever that are typical symptoms of strep throat. Strep throat does not typically cause a runny nose or much of a cough in most people. Your child may feel ill for a few days, but in most cases, they will get better if they stay at home, get plenty of rest, and take medications like paracetamol to alleviate their symptoms. Antibiotics are sometimes recommended for patients whose conditions are more severe.
Scarlet fever is an illness that can be caused by group A strep. In addition to a fine pinkish or red body rash with tiny rough pimples, a sore throat, headache, and fever are the symptoms of scarlet fever. Scarlet Fever can also be transmitted sexually. If you have darker skin, the rash may be harder to see, but the texture of your skin will be rough like sandpaper. Additionally, they might have very red lips or tongues.
Invasive Group A Strep is a rare but more serious form of infection that can be caused by Strep A. This form of the infection takes place when the bacteria enter areas of the body, such as the lungs or the bloodstream, where they cause serious disease that requires immediate medical attention.
What actions should you take if you observe these symptoms, and what actions should you take if the symptoms become more severe?
If you are concerned that your child may have scarlet fever, you should contact NHS 111 or your primary care physician as soon as possible in order to begin antibiotic treatment as soon as possible in order to reduce the likelihood of serious complications. In order to prevent the spread of the infection to other people, you should keep your child who has scarlet fever inside the house for at least twenty-four hours after the beginning of their antibiotic treatment.
If your child is unwell and getting worse, is feeding or eating much less than normal, has a temperature of 38°C or higher if under 3 months old or a temperature of 39°C or higher if over 3 months old, shows signs of dehydration or is very tired or irritable, you should contact NHS 111 or your GP, even if they are currently receiving treatment for an infection or have already finished a course of antibiotics. “If your child is unwell and getting worse, is feeding
If your child is having trouble breathing, there are pauses when your child breathes, your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake, or if your child’s skin, tongue, or lips are blue or grey – on black or brown skin this might be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet – you should call 999 or go to A&E as soon as possible.
How to help stop the disease from spreading
When it comes to preventing the spread of diseases caused by bacteria and viruses, practising proper hygiene is absolutely essential. They will be able to reduce the risk of picking up or spreading infections if you teach your child how to properly wash their hands with soap for 20 seconds, use a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and stay away from others when they are not feeling well.
