Latest update
The latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveals that scarlet fever notifications are steady and according to what we’d typically anticipate to see presently of yr.
So far this season (from 12 September 2022 to 7 May 2023), there have been 55,872 notifications of scarlet fever, in comparison with 54,394 within the final update on 20 April. In the final comparable excessive season (from September 2017 to September 2018), there have been 30,768 scarlet fever notifications total throughout the yr.
While invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) remains to be a really uncommon an infection, notifications are barely increased than we’d anticipate presently of yr and stay comparatively excessive in youngsters in comparison with what we sometimes see. As in earlier seasons, nearly all of iGAS circumstances have continued to be amongst these aged over 45 years, significantly in these aged over 75 years.
So far this season, there have been:
- 3,287 iGAS circumstances throughout all age teams, up from 2,965 within the final update on 20 April – that is in comparison with 2,898 throughout the entire of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018
- 761 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 18 years and below, in comparison with 701 within the final update – that is in comparison with 205 circumstances within the 2017 to 2018 season
Sadly, thus far this season, there have been 426 deaths (from any trigger recorded inside 7 days of an iGAS an infection prognosis) throughout all age teams in England, in comparison with 401 within the final update. This determine contains 48 youngsters aged below 18 years in England, a rise of 1 for the reason that final update. In the September 2017 to September 2018 season, there have been 354 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths amongst youngsters aged below 18 years.
Dr Colin Brown, Incident Director at UKHSA, stated:
While scarlet fever notifications are according to what we sometimes see presently of yr, we’re nonetheless seeing comparatively excessive ranges of invasive group A strep infections within the oldest and youngest age teams. It is essential that we proceed to assist cease the unfold of all germs in the neighborhood and to weak teams. Wash your arms often and totally, catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue, and preserve your home nicely ventilated. If you might be unwell with any an infection, you must keep away from visiting weak folks, and steer clear of college, nursery or work in case you are unwell with a fever.
Please contact NHS 111 or your GP when you suspect you or your youngster have scarlet fever – with signs comparable to fever, sore throat, problem swallowing and a sandpapery rash.
Most sicknesses will be managed at home, and NHS.UK has info to assist mother and father take care of youngsters with delicate sicknesses. Contact NHS 111 or your GP surgical procedure when you suppose your youngster is getting worse, as an example, if they’re feeding or consuming lower than regular, are dehydrated, have a excessive temperature that received’t go down, are highly regarded and sweaty or appear extra drained or irritable than regular.
Previous updates
Thursday 20 April 2023
The latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveals that scarlet fever notifications are according to what we’d typically anticipate to see presently of yr, and have considerably lowered for the reason that peak in December 2022.
So far this season (from 12 September 2022 to 16 April 2023), there have been 54,394 notifications of scarlet fever. In the final comparable excessive season (from September 2017 to September 2018), there have been 30,768 scarlet fever notifications total throughout the yr.
While invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) remains to be a really uncommon an infection, notifications are barely increased than we’d anticipate presently of yr and stay comparatively excessive in youngsters in comparison with what we sometimes see. As in earlier seasons, nearly all of iGAS circumstances have continued to be amongst these aged over 45 years, significantly in these aged over 75 years.
So far this season, there have been:
- 2,965 iGAS circumstances throughout all age teams, in comparison with 2,898 throughout the entire of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018
- 701 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 18 years and below, in comparison with 205 circumstances within the 2017 to 2018 season
Sadly, thus far this season, there have been 401 deaths (from any trigger recorded inside 7 days of an iGAS an infection prognosis) throughout all age teams in England. This determine contains 47 youngsters aged below 18 years in England. In the September 2017 to September 2018 season, there have been 354 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths amongst youngsters aged below 18 years.
Thursday 30 March 2023
The latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveals that scarlet fever notifications are according to what we’d anticipate to see presently of yr, and have considerably lowered for the reason that peak in December 2022. However, iGAS notifications stay increased than usually seen at this level within the season.
High ranges of iGAS exercise at such an early level within the season stays a priority, with additional will increase potential as we transfer in the direction of the same old peak time of the yr for infections. While iGAS remains to be very uncommon, notifications are increased than we’d anticipate presently of yr and stay comparatively excessive in youngsters in comparison with what we sometimes see.
There proceed to be elevated notifications in older grownup age teams, and as in earlier seasons, nearly all of iGAS circumstances have continued to be amongst these aged over 45 years, significantly in these aged over 75 years.
So far this season (from 12 September 2022 to 26 March 2023), there have been 52,183 notifications of scarlet fever. In the final comparable excessive season (from September 2017 to September 2018) there have been 30,768 scarlet fever notifications total throughout the yr.
iGAS infections stay uncommon however are at present increased than anticipated in a typical yr. So far this season, there have been:
- 2,651 iGAS circumstances throughout all age teams, in comparison with 2,898 throughout the entire of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018
- 635 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 18 years and below in comparison with 205 circumstances within the 2017 to 2018 season
Sadly, thus far this season, there have been 355 deaths throughout all age teams in England. This determine contains 40 youngsters aged below 18 years in England. In the September 2017 to September 2018 season, there have been 354 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths amongst youngsters aged below 18 years.
Friday 3 March 2023
The latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveals that scarlet fever infections and invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) infections stay excessive, though they’ve considerably lowered for the reason that peak in December 2022.
High ranges of exercise at such an early level within the season stays a priority, with additional will increase potential within the coming weeks as we transfer in the direction of the same old peak time of the yr for infections. While iGAS remains to be very uncommon, notifications stay comparatively excessive in youngsters in comparison with what we sometimes see – these charges are extra in line with the earlier excessive season of 2017 to 2018.
There proceed to be elevated notifications in older grownup age teams, and as in earlier seasons, nearly all of iGAS circumstances have continued to be amongst these aged over 45 years, significantly in these aged over 75 years.
So far this season (from 12 September 2022 to 10 March 2023), there have been 49,372 notifications of scarlet fever. In the final comparable excessive season (from September 2017 to September 2018) there have been 30,768 scarlet fever notifications total throughout the yr.
iGAS infections stay uncommon however are at present increased than anticipated in a typical yr. So far this season, there have been:
- 2,415 iGAS circumstances throughout all age teams, in comparison with 2,898 throughout the entire of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018
- 575 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 18 years and below in comparison with 205 circumstances within the 2017 to 2018 season
Sadly, thus far this season, there have been 319 deaths throughout all age teams in England. This determine contains 40 youngsters aged below 18 years in England. In the September 2017 to September 2018 season, there have been 354 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths amongst youngsters aged below 18 years.
Friday 3 March 2023
The latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveals that scarlet fever infections stay excessive and are fluctuating with ranges much like these seen over the past comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018.
The variety of weekly notifications of invasive group A strep (iGAS) in youngsters has slowed since December 2022. High ranges of exercise at such an early level within the season stays a priority, with additional will increase potential within the coming weeks as we transfer in the direction of the same old peak time of the yr for infections. While iGAS remains to be very uncommon, notifications stay comparatively excessive in youngsters in comparison with what we sometimes see – these charges are extra in line with the earlier excessive season of 2017 to 2018.
There proceed to be elevated notifications in older grownup age teams, and as in earlier seasons, nearly all of iGAS circumstances have continued to be amongst these aged over 45 years, significantly in these aged over 75 years.
Dr Derren Ready, UKHSA incident director, stated:
Scarlet fever notifications have fallen considerably for the reason that peak in December however stay at a excessive stage. This decline must be handled with warning as spring is often the interval of the yr that we may see infections rise once more. Please contact NHS 111 or your GP when you suspect you or your youngster have scarlet fever – with signs comparable to fever, sore throat, problem swallowing and a sandpapery rash.
Most winter sicknesses will be managed at home, and NHS.UK has info to assist mother and father take care of youngsters with delicate sicknesses. Contact NHS 111 or your GP surgical procedure when you suppose your youngster is getting worse, as an example, if they’re feeding or consuming lower than regular, are dehydrated, have a excessive temperature that received’t go down, are highly regarded and sweaty or appear extra drained or irritable than regular.
It is essential that we proceed to assist cease the unfold of all germs in the neighborhood and to weak teams. Wash your arms often and totally, catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue, and preserve your home nicely ventilated. If you might be unwell with any an infection, you must keep away from visiting weak folks, and steer clear of college, nursery or work in case you are unwell with a fever.
So far this season (from 12 September 2022 to twenty-eight February 2023), there have been 47,084 notifications of scarlet fever. In the final comparable excessive season of 2017 to 2018 (September to September), there have been 30,768 scarlet fever notifications total throughout the yr.
Invasive group A strep infections stay uncommon however are at present increased than anticipated in a typical yr. So far this season, there have been:
- 2,178 iGAS circumstances throughout all age teams, in comparison with 2,898 throughout the entire of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018
- 242 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 1 to 4 years in comparison with 194 circumstances within the 2017 to 2018 season
- 160 circumstances in youngsters aged 5 to 9 years, in comparison with 112 through the 2017 to 2018 season
Sadly, thus far this season, there have been 285 deaths throughout all age teams in England. This determine contains 35 youngsters below 18 years in England. In the 2017 to 2018 season (September to September), there have been 354 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths amongst youngsters below 18 years.
Thursday 16 February 2023
The latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) continues to point out that scarlet fever infections stay excessive, though they’re now according to ranges seen over the past comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018.
The variety of weekly notifications of invasive group A strep (iGAS) in youngsters has slowed, however there was a slight improve in recent weeks. While iGAS remains to be very uncommon, notifications stay comparatively excessive in youngsters in comparison with what we sometimes see, though these charges are extra in line with the earlier excessive season of 2017 to 2018. In recent weeks, there was a rise in older grownup age teams, and as in earlier seasons, nearly all of iGAS circumstances have continued to be amongst these over the age of 45, significantly within the over 65s.
Dr Derren Ready, Incident Director, UKHSA, stated:
Although the variety of scarlet fever notifications we’re seeing every week has considerably fallen for the reason that peak in December, the micro organism that trigger the an infection are nonetheless circulating at excessive ranges for this time of the yr. Please contact NHS 111 or your GP when you suspect you or your youngster have scarlet fever – with signs comparable to fever, sore throat, problem swallowing, and a sandpapery rash.
Early therapy of scarlet fever with antibiotics is essential to cut back the danger of a extra critical an infection and transmission to others. After beginning antibiotics, youngsters must be excused from college or nursery, and adults must be excused from work for the primary 24 hours.
Most winter sicknesses will be managed at home, and NHS.UK has info to assist mother and father take care of youngsters with delicate sicknesses. Contact NHS 111 or your GP surgical procedure when you suppose your youngster is getting worse, as an example, if they’re feeding or consuming lower than regular, are dehydrated, have a excessive temperature that received’t go down, are highly regarded and sweaty or appear extra drained or irritable than regular.
It is essential that we proceed to assist cut back the unfold of all infections in the neighborhood and to weak teams. Wash your arms often and totally, catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue, and the place potential preserve your home well-ventilated. If you might be unwell with any an infection, it’s greatest to keep away from visiting weak folks, and steer clear of college, nursery, or work in case you are unwell with a fever.
So far this season (from 12 September to 12 February), there have been 44,478 notifications of scarlet fever. In the final comparable excessive season of 2017 to 2018 (September to August), there have been 30,768 scarlet fever notifications total throughout the yr.
Invasive group A strep (iGAS) infections stay uncommon however are at present increased than anticipated in a typical yr. So far this season, there have been:
- 2,081 iGAS circumstances throughout all age teams, in comparison with 2,967 throughout the entire of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018
- 233 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 1 to 4 in comparison with 194 circumstances within the 2017 to 2018 season
- 156 circumstances in youngsters aged 5 to 9 years, in comparison with 117 through the 2017 to 2018 season
Sadly, thus far this season, there have been 262 deaths throughout all age teams in England. This determine contains 32 youngsters below 18 in England. In the 2017 to 2018 season (September to August), there have been 354 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths amongst youngsters below 18.
Friday 3 February 2023
The latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) continues to point out that scarlet fever infections stay excessive for this time of yr. Although the weekly variety of notifications has fallen for the reason that peak in December, circumstances are nonetheless fluctuating at a stage above what we often see throughout this time of the yr. UKHSA will proceed to intently monitor the incidence price.
The signs of scarlet fever embody:
- sore throat
- headache
- fever
- nausea
- vomiting
- a rash that appears like sandpaper to the contact
The rash often develops after 12 to 48 hours, sometimes on the chest and abdomen first, then quickly spreading to different components of the physique. On white pores and skin, the rash appears pink or purple. On brown and black pores and skin, it may be more durable to see a color change, however you may nonetheless really feel the sandpaper-like texture of the rash and see the raised bumps.
Contact NHS 111 or your GP surgical procedure when you suspect you or your youngster have scarlet fever so that you will be assessed.
The variety of weekly notifications of invasive group A strep (iGAS) in youngsters has slowed. While iGAS remains to be very uncommon, notifications stay comparatively excessive in youngsters in comparison with what we sometimes see. There has been an increase in older age teams in recent weeks and as with earlier seasons, over recent weeks nearly all of iGAS circumstances proceed to be in these aged over 45 years.
Dr Sarah Anderson at UKHSA stated:
Although the variety of scarlet fever notifications we’re seeing every week has considerably fallen for the reason that peak in December, the micro organism that trigger the an infection are nonetheless circulating at excessive ranges for this time of the yr. Please contact NHS 111 or your GP when you suspect you or your youngster have scarlet fever – with signs comparable to fever, sore throat, problem swallowing and a sandpapery rash.
Early therapy of scarlet fever with antibiotics is essential to cut back the danger of a extra critical an infection and transmission to others. Children ought to keep off college or nursery and adults ought to keep off work for twenty-four hours after antibiotics have began.
Most winter sicknesses will be managed at home and NHS.UK has info to assist mother and father take care of youngsters with delicate sicknesses. Contact NHS 111 or your GP surgical procedure when you suppose your youngster is getting worse, as an example, if they’re feeding or consuming lower than regular, are dehydrated, have a excessive temperature that received’t go down, are highly regarded and sweaty or appear extra drained or irritable than regular.
It is essential that we proceed to assist cease the unfold of all germs in the neighborhood and to weak teams. Wash your arms often and totally, catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue, and preserve your home well-ventilated. If you might be unwell with any an infection you must keep away from visiting weak folks, and steer clear of college, nursery or work in case you are unwell with a fever.
Thursday 19 January 2023
The latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) continues to point out that scarlet fever infections stay excessive, though the variety of notifications has fallen in recent weeks.
So far this season (from 19 September to fifteen January), there have been 38,429 notifications of scarlet fever. In the final comparably excessive season of 2017 to 2018 (September to August), there have been 30,768 scarlet fever notifications total throughout the yr. There has been a discount within the weekly variety of notifications over the previous couple of weeks, suggesting a lower in transmission of the micro organism.
Invasive group A strep (iGAS) infections stay uncommon however are at present increased than we see in a typical yr. So far this season there have been:
- 1,675 iGAS circumstances throughout all age teams, in comparison with 2,967 throughout the entire of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018
- 190 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 1 to 4 in comparison with 194 circumstances within the 2017 to 2018 season
- 132 circumstances in youngsters aged 5 to 9 years in comparison with 117 through the 2017 to 2018 season
The variety of weekly notifications of iGAS in youngsters has decreased. However, in older age teams, significantly these over 65 years outdated, infections haven’t slowed on the similar price and we’re monitoring this intently. As with earlier seasons, over recent weeks nearly all of iGAS circumstances proceed to be in these over 45 years.
Sadly, thus far this season there have been 211 deaths throughout all age teams in England. This determine contains 30 youngsters below 18 in England. In the 2017 to 2018 season (September to August), there have been 355 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths in youngsters below 18.
Dr Derren Ready, UKHSA incident director, stated:
Although the variety of scarlet fever notifications we’re seeing every week is falling, the micro organism that trigger the an infection are nonetheless circulating at excessive ranges. It’s additionally commonplace to have a dip within the variety of circumstances earlier than the spring, so we may see infections rise once more within the coming months. Please contact NHS 111 or your GP when you suspect you or your youngster have scarlet fever – with signs comparable to fever, sore throat, problem swallowing and a sandpapery rash.
Early therapy of scarlet fever with antibiotics is essential to cut back the danger of a extra critical an infection and transmission to others. Children ought to keep off college or nursery and adults ought to keep off work for twenty-four hours after antibiotics have began.
It’s not too late to take up the free flu and coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines when you’re eligible – we all know that group A streptococcus infections will be extra critical when mixed with one other an infection together with flu.
Most winter sicknesses will be managed at home and NHS.UK has info to assist mother and father take care of youngsters with delicate sicknesses. Contact NHS 111 or your GP surgical procedure when you suppose your youngster is getting worse, as an example, if they’re feeding or consuming lower than regular, are dehydrated, have a excessive temperature that received’t go down, are highly regarded and sweaty or appear extra drained or irritable than regular.
It is essential that we proceed to assist cease the unfold of all germs in the neighborhood and to weak teams. Wash your arms often and totally, catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue, and preserve your home well-ventilated. If you might be unwell with any an infection you must keep away from visiting weak folks, and steer clear of college, nursery or work in case you are unwell with a fever.
Thursday 12 January 2023
Latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) continues to point out scarlet fever and group A strep (GAS) infections stay excessive, though the variety of notifications has fallen in recent weeks.
So far this season (from 19 September to eight January), there have been 37,068 notifications of scarlet fever. This compares to a complete of 4,490 on the similar level within the yr over the past comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018 – though circumstances in that season began to rise at a distinct level. In 2017 to 2018, there have been 30,768 scarlet fever notifications total throughout the yr.
Invasive group A strep (iGAS) infections stay uncommon however are at present increased than we see in a typical yr. So far this season there have been 1,539 iGAS circumstances throughout all age teams, in comparison with 2,967 throughout the entire of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018. So far this season, there have been 177 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 1 to 4 in comparison with 194 circumstances in that age group throughout the entire of the 2017 to 2018 season.
There have been 128 circumstances in youngsters aged 5 to 9 years in comparison with 117 throughout the entire of the 2017 to 2018 season. As with earlier seasons, over recent weeks nearly all of iGAS circumstances proceed to be in these over 45 years. There are early indications of a rise of iGAS notifications within the older age teams in recent weeks and we are going to monitor this pattern intently.
Sadly, thus far this season there have been 190 deaths throughout all age teams in England. This determine contains 30 youngsters below 18 in England. In the 2017 to 2018 season, there have been 355 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths in youngsters below 18.
Dr Sarah Anderson, UKHSA incident director, stated:
The variety of scarlet fever notifications we’re seeing every week has fallen, however we’re persevering with to observe the info intently as the varsity time period will get underway, and youngsters combine extra. The micro organism that trigger scarlet fever are nonetheless circulating at excessive ranges so it is crucial that we proceed to do our bit to cease the unfold of germs to weak teams, together with the aged by washing our arms often and totally, catching coughs and sneezes in a tissue, and retaining our properties nicely ventilated.
It’s not too late to take up the free flu and COVID-19 vaccines when you’re eligible – we all know that group A streptococcus infections will be extra critical when mixed with one other an infection like flu.
Most winter sicknesses will be managed at home and NHS.UK has info to assist mother and father take care of youngsters with delicate sickness. Deaths and critical sickness following group A strep an infection are very uncommon and the an infection will be simply handled with antibiotics.
Contact NHS 111 or your GP surgical procedure when you suppose your youngster is getting worse, as an example they’re feeding or consuming lower than regular, are dehydrated, have a excessive temperature that received’t go down, are highly regarded and sweaty or appear extra drained or irritable than regular.
Thursday 5 January 2022
Latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) continues to point out scarlet fever and group A strep (GAS) infections stay excessive.
So far this season (from 19 September to 1 January) there have been 35,616 notifications of scarlet fever. This compares to a complete of 4,192 on the similar level within the yr over the past comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018 – though circumstances in that season began to rise at a distinct level. In 2017 to 2018 there have been 30,768 scarlet fever notifications total throughout the yr.
Invasive group A strep (iGAS) infections stay uncommon however are at present increased than we see in a typical yr. So far this season, there have been 159 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 1 to 4 in comparison with 194 circumstances in that age group throughout the entire yr of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018. There have been 118 circumstances in youngsters aged 5 to 9 years in comparison with 117 throughout the entire yr of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018. The majority of iGAS circumstances proceed to be in these over 45 years.
Sadly, thus far this season there have been 151 deaths throughout all age teams in England. This determine contains 29 youngsters below 18 in England. In the 2017 to 2018 season, there have been 355 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths in youngsters below 18.
Dr Obaghe Edeghere, UKHSA incident director, stated:
As youngsters return to highschool, scarlet fever and ‘strep throat’ proceed to flow into at excessive ranges and so it is crucial that all of us wash our arms often and totally and catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue. This will assist cease germs spreading between youngsters and to different weak teams and can assist stop the unfold of different winter sicknesses which might be at present circulating at excessive ranges, together with flu and COVID-19.
It’s not too late to take up the free flu and COVID-19 vaccines when you’re eligible – we all know that group A strep infections will be extra critical when mixed with one other an infection like flu.
Most winter sicknesses will be managed at home and NHS.UK has info to assist mother and father take care of youngsters with delicate sickness. Deaths and critical sickness following group A strep an infection are very uncommon and the an infection will be simply handled with antibiotics.
Speak to a healthcare skilled when you suppose your youngster is getting worse, as an example they’re feeding or consuming lower than regular, are dehydrated, have a excessive temperature that received’t go down, are highly regarded and sweaty or appear extra drained or irritable than regular.
Thursday 29 December 2022
Latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) continues to point out an out of season improve in scarlet fever and group A streptococcus infections and the next variety of circumstances than seen in a typical yr.
So far this season (from 19 September to 25 December) there have been 33,836 notifications of scarlet fever. This compares to a complete of 4,672 on the similar level within the yr over the past comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018 – though circumstances in that season began to rise at a distinct level. In 2017 to 2018 there have been 30,768 scarlet fever notifications total throughout the yr.
Invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) infections stay uncommon. So far this season, there have been 151 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 1 to 4 in comparison with 194 circumstances in that age group throughout the entire yr of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018. There have been 102 circumstances in youngsters aged 5 to 9 years in comparison with 117 throughout the entire yr of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018. The majority of iGAS circumstances proceed to be in these over 45 years.
Sadly, thus far this season there have been 122 deaths throughout all age teams in England. This determine contains 25 youngsters below 18 in England. In the 2017 to 2018 season, there have been 355 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths in youngsters below 18.
Dr Obaghe Edeghere, UKHSA incident director, stated:
We are persevering with to see an increase in scarlet fever and ‘strep throat’ and that is understandably regarding for folks. However I might stress that the situation will be simply handled with antibiotics and it is rather uncommon {that a} youngster will go on to change into extra critically unwell.
Over the winter, there are many sicknesses circulating that may make youngsters unwell and so you will need to keep away from contact with different folks in case you are feeling unwell, wash your arms often and totally and catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue. I might additionally urge all these eligible at no cost winter vaccines to reap the benefits of these.
Most winter sicknesses will be managed at home and NHS.UK has info to assist mother and father take care of youngsters with delicate sickness. However please do be sure to converse to a healthcare skilled when you imagine your youngster is getting worse as an example they’re feeding or consuming lower than regular, are dehydrated, has a excessive temperature that received’t go down, may be very sizzling and sweaty or appears extra drained or irritable than regular.
Thursday 22 December 2022
Latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) continues to point out an out of season improve in scarlet fever and group A streptococcus infections and the next variety of circumstances than seen in a typical yr.
So far this season (from 12 September to 18 December) there have been 27,486 notifications of scarlet fever. This compares to a complete of three,287 on the similar level within the yr over the past comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018 – though circumstances in that season began to rise at a distinct level. In 2017 to 2018 there have been 30,768 scarlet fever notifications total throughout the yr.
Invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) infections stay uncommon. So far this season, there have been 126 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 1 to 4 in comparison with 194 circumstances in that age group throughout the entire yr of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018. There have been 88 circumstances in youngsters aged 5 to 9 years in comparison with 117 throughout the entire yr of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018. The majority of iGAS circumstances proceed to be in these over 45 years.
Sadly, thus far this season there have been 94 deaths throughout all age teams in England. This determine contains 21 youngsters below 18 in England. In the 2017 to 2018 season, there have been 355 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths in youngsters below 18.
Dr Colin Brown, Deputy Director, UKHSA, stated:
I perceive how this huge rise in scarlet fever and ‘strep throat’ could also be regarding to oldsters, nonetheless the situation will be simply handled with antibiotics and it is rather uncommon {that a} youngster will go on to change into extra critically unwell. At this time of yr, there are many winter sicknesses circulating that may make youngsters unwell and I might urge all these eligible at no cost winter vaccines to reap the benefits of these.
Most winter sicknesses will be managed at home and NHS.UK has info to assist mother and father take care of youngsters with delicate sickness. NHS companies are below big strain this winter, however please go to NHS.UK, contact 111 on-line or your GP surgical procedure in case your youngster has signs of scarlet fever or ‘strep throat’ to allow them to be assessed for therapy.
Thursday 15 December 2022
Latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) continues to point out an out of season improve in scarlet fever and group A streptococcus infections.
So far this season (from 12 September to 11 December) there have been 7,750 notifications of scarlet fever. This compares to a complete of two,538 on the similar level within the yr over the past comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018 – though circumstances in that season began to rise at a distinct level. In 2017 to 2018 there have been 30,768 scarlet fever notifications total throughout the yr.
Invasive group A streptococcus (iGAS) infections stay uncommon. So far this season, there have been 111 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 1 to 4 in comparison with 194 circumstances in that age group throughout the entire yr of the final comparably excessive season* in 2017 to 2018. There have been 74 circumstances in youngsters aged 5 to 9 years in comparison with 117 throughout the entire yr of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018. The majority of circumstances proceed to be in these over 15 years.
Sadly, thus far this season there have been 74 deaths throughout all age teams in England. This determine contains 16 youngsters below 18 in England. In the 2017 to 2018 season, there have been 355 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths in youngsters below 18.
*We analyse scarlet fever seasons from week 37 to week 36 the next yr. The majority of circumstances would sometimes be seen from the start of February to April.
Dr Colin Brown, Deputy Director, UKHSA, stated:
Scarlet fever and ‘strep throat’ will make youngsters really feel unwell, however will be simply handled with antibiotics. Symptoms to look out for embody fever, sore throat, swollen glands, problem swallowing, and headache. Scarlet fever causes a sandpapery rash on the physique and a swollen tongue. NHS companies are below big strain this winter, however please go to NHS.UK, contact 111 on-line or your GP surgical procedure in case your youngster has signs of scarlet fever or ‘strep throat’ to allow them to be assessed for therapy.
At this time of yr, there are many winter sicknesses circulating that may make youngsters unwell. Most of those will be managed at home and NHS.UK has info to assist mother and father take care of youngsters with delicate sickness.
It may be very uncommon {that a} youngster will go on to change into extra critically unwell, however mother and father know higher than anybody else what your youngster is often like, so that you’ll know when they aren’t responding as they might usually. Make positive you converse to a healthcare skilled in case your youngster is getting worse after a bout of scarlet fever, a sore throat or respiratory an infection – look out for indicators comparable to a fever that received’t go down, dehydration, excessive tiredness, intense muscle pains, problem respiratory or respiratory very quick.
Good hand and respiratory hygiene are essential for stopping the unfold of many germs. By educating your youngster how one can wash their arms correctly with cleaning soap for 20 seconds, utilizing a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and retaining away from others when feeling unwell, they’ll have the ability to cut back the danger of selecting up or spreading infections.
The first signs of scarlet fever embody flu-like signs, together with a excessive temperature, a sore throat and swollen neck glands (a big lump on the aspect of your neck).
A rash seems 12 to 48 hours later. It appears like small, raised bumps and begins on the chest and tummy, then spreads. The rash makes your pores and skin really feel tough, like sandpaper.
On white pores and skin the rash appears pink or purple. On brown and black pores and skin it may be more durable to see a change in color, however you may nonetheless really feel the rash and see the raised bumps.
Contact 111 (on-line if youngster over 5) or GP surgical procedure in case your youngster has scarlet fever signs.
Symptoms can embody nausea and vomiting.
The signs of ‘strep’ throat embody:
Contact 111 (on-line if youngster over 5) or GP surgical procedure in case your youngster has ‘strep’ throat signs.
The signs of iGAS embody:
- excessive fever
- extreme muscle aches
- localised muscle tenderness
- rising ache, swelling and redness at website of wound
- unexplained diarrhoea or vomiting
There are a number of viruses circulating that trigger sore throats, colds and coughs. These ought to resolve with no need medical consideration. Antibiotics usually are not wanted for viral infections. However, youngsters can occasionally develop a bacterial an infection concurrently a virus and that may make them extra unwell.
As a mother or father, when you really feel that your youngster appears critically unwell, you must belief your individual judgement. Contact NHS 111 (on-line if youngster over 5) or your GP surgical procedure if:
- your youngster is getting worse
- your youngster is feeding or consuming a lot lower than regular
- your youngster has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or extra or reveals different indicators of dehydration
- your child is below 3 months and has a temperature of 38°C, or is 3 to six months and has a temperature of 39°C or increased
- your child feels hotter than standard if you contact their again or chest, or feels sweaty
- your youngster may be very drained or irritable
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- your youngster is having problem respiratory – you might discover grunting noises or their tummy sucking below their ribs
- there are pauses when your youngster breathes
- your youngster’s pores and skin, tongue or lips are blue
- your youngster is floppy and won’t get up or keep awake
Cases of GAS often improve through the winter and the final time vital numbers of circumstances have been reported was within the 2017 to 2018 season. Seasons with excessive circumstances can happen each 3 to 4 years however social distancing measures applied through the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic might have interrupted this cycle and should clarify the present improve being noticed.
While invasive group A strep is uncommon, shut contacts of circumstances are at better threat of creating the an infection. Health safety groups comply with nationwide steerage to handle the contacts of iGAS circumstances and advise preventative therapy if obligatory.
Following an proof evaluate of people who’re at better threat of invasive group A strep, UKHSA has up to date steerage to develop the variety of weak teams who can be probably eligible for prophylactic antibiotics following a threat evaluation by well being safety groups. This proof evaluate was underway earlier than the present rise in circumstances, and is now being applied.
Data printed by Public Health Wales and Public Health Scotland can also be obtainable.
Thursday 8 December 2022
The latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) proceed to point that there’s an out of season improve in scarlet fever and group A strep infections. Cases often present steepest rises within the new yr, however have elevated sharply in recent weeks.
So far this season (from 12 September to 4 December) there have been 6,601 notifications of scarlet fever. This compares to a complete of two,538 on the similar level within the yr over the past comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018.
In very uncommon events, the micro organism inflicting scarlet fever, group A streptococcus (GAS) can get into the bloodstream and trigger an sickness known as invasive group A strep (iGAS), which will be very critical, significantly in older, youthful and extra weak teams. iGAS circumstances throughout all age teams are barely increased than anticipated presently of yr. The latest information continues to focus on the next proportion of iGAS circumstances in youngsters than we’d usually see. However, iGAS stays unusual.
So far this season, there have been 85 iGAS circumstances in youngsters aged 1 to 4 in comparison with 194 circumstances in that age group throughout the entire of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018. There have been 60 circumstances in youngsters aged 5 to 9 in comparison with 117 throughout the entire of the final comparably excessive season in 2017 to 2018. The majority of circumstances proceed to be in these over 45.
Sadly, thus far this season there have been 60 deaths throughout all age teams in England. This determine contains 13 youngsters below 18. In the 2017 to 2018 season, there have been 355 deaths in complete throughout the season, together with 27 deaths in youngsters below 18.
Cases of GAS often improve through the winter and the final time vital numbers of circumstances have been reported was within the 2017 to 2018 season. Seasons with excessive circumstances can happen each 3 to 4 years however social distancing measures applied through the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic might have interrupted this cycle and clarify the present improve being noticed.
Currently, there is no such thing as a proof {that a} new pressure of GAS is circulating or any improve in antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics are the perfect therapy and work nicely in opposition to the circulating strains. The improve is prone to replicate elevated susceptibility to those infections in youngsters resulting from low numbers of circumstances through the pandemic, together with present circulation of respiratory viruses, which can improve the possibilities of youngsters changing into critically unwell. However, investigations are below solution to perceive if there are different components that might be contributing to the rise this season and to higher perceive who’s at present most affected.
Dr Colin Brown, Deputy Director, UKHSA, stated:
Scarlet fever and ‘strep throat’ are widespread childhood sicknesses that may be handled simply with antibiotics. Please go to NHS.UK, contact 111 on-line or your GP surgical procedure in case your youngster has signs of this an infection to allow them to be assessed for therapy.
Very hardly ever, the micro organism can get into the bloodstream and trigger extra critical sickness known as invasive group A strep. We know that that is regarding for folks, however I need to stress that whereas we’re seeing a rise in circumstances in youngsters, this stays very unusual. There are numerous winter bugs circulating that may make your youngster really feel unwell, that largely aren’t trigger for alarm. However, be sure to discuss to a well being skilled in case your youngster is getting worse after a bout of scarlet fever, a sore throat or respiratory an infection – look out for indicators comparable to a fever that received’t go down, dehydration, excessive tiredness and problem respiratory.
Good hand and respiratory hygiene are essential for stopping the unfold of many bugs. By educating your youngster how one can wash their arms correctly with cleaning soap for 20 seconds, utilizing a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and retaining away from others when feeling unwell, they’ll have the ability to cut back the danger of selecting up or spreading infections.
There are numerous viruses that trigger sore throats, colds and coughs circulating. These ought to resolve with out medical intervention. However, youngsters can occasionally develop a bacterial an infection on prime of a virus and that may make them extra unwell. As a mother or father, when you really feel that your youngster appears critically unwell, you must belief your individual judgement.
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- your youngster is having problem respiratory – you might discover grunting noises or their tummy sucking below their ribs
- there are pauses when your youngster breathes
- your youngster’s pores and skin, tongue or lips are blue
- your youngster is floppy and won’t get up or keep awake
Note: We analyse scarlet fever seasons from week 37 to week 36 the next yr. The majority of circumstances would sometimes be seen from the start of February to April.
Friday 2 December 2022
The latest information from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveals that scarlet fever circumstances proceed to stay increased than we’d sometimes see presently of yr.
There have been 851 circumstances reported in week 46, in comparison with a mean of 186 for the previous years.
Scarlet fever is often a light sickness, however it’s extremely infectious. Therefore, look out for signs in your youngster, which embody a sore throat, headache, and fever, together with a nice, pinkish or purple physique rash with a sandpapery really feel. On darker pores and skin, the rash will be harder to detect visually however could have a sandpapery really feel. Contact NHS 111 or your GP when you suspect your youngster has scarlet fever, as a result of early therapy of scarlet fever with antibiotics is essential to cut back the danger of problems comparable to pneumonia or a bloodstream an infection. If your youngster has scarlet fever, preserve them at home till at the very least 24 hours after the beginning of antibiotic therapy to keep away from spreading the an infection to others.
Scarlet fever is attributable to micro organism known as group A streptococci. These micro organism additionally trigger different respiratory and pores and skin infections comparable to strep throat and impetigo.
In very uncommon events, the micro organism can get into the bloodstream and trigger an sickness known as invasive group A strep (iGAS). While nonetheless unusual, there was a rise in invasive group A strep circumstances this yr, significantly in youngsters below 10. There have been 2.3 circumstances per 100,000 youngsters aged 1 to 4 in comparison with a mean of 0.5 within the pre-pandemic seasons (2017 to 2019) and 1.1 circumstances per 100,000 youngsters aged 5 to 9 in comparison with the pre-pandemic common of 0.3 (2017 to 2019) on the similar time of the yr.
So far this season there have been 5 recorded deaths inside 7 days of an iGAS prognosis in youngsters below 10 in England. During the final excessive season for group A strep an infection (2017 to 2018) there have been 4 deaths in youngsters below 10 within the equal interval.
Investigations are additionally underway following studies of a rise in decrease respiratory tract group A strep infections in youngsters over the previous few weeks, which have brought about extreme sickness.
Currently, there is no such thing as a proof {that a} new pressure is circulating. The improve is most definitely associated to excessive quantities of circulating micro organism and social mixing.
There are numerous viruses that trigger sore throats, colds and coughs circulating. These ought to resolve with out medical intervention. However, youngsters can occasionally develop a bacterial an infection on prime of a virus and that may make them extra unwell.
As a mother or father, when you really feel that your youngster appears critically unwell, you must belief your individual judgement. Contact NHS 111 or your GP if:
- your youngster is getting worse
- your youngster is feeding or consuming a lot lower than regular
- your youngster has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or extra or reveals different indicators of dehydration
- your child is below 3 months and has a temperature of 38°C, or is 3 to six months and has a temperature of 39°C or increased
- your child feels hotter than standard if you contact their again or chest, or feels sweaty
- your youngster may be very drained or irritable
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- your youngster is having problem respiratory – you might discover grunting noises or their tummy sucking below their ribs
- there are pauses when your youngster breathes
- your youngster’s pores and skin, tongue or lips are blue
- your youngster is floppy and won’t get up or keep awake
Good hand and respiratory hygiene are essential for stopping the unfold of many bugs. By educating your youngster how one can wash their arms correctly with cleaning soap for 20 seconds, utilizing a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and retaining away from others when feeling unwell, they’ll have the ability to cut back the danger of selecting up or spreading infections.
Dr Colin Brown, Deputy Director, UKHSA, stated:
We are seeing the next variety of circumstances of group A strep this yr than standard. The micro organism often causes a light an infection producing sore throats or scarlet fever that may be simply handled with antibiotics. In very uncommon circumstances, this micro organism can get into the bloodstream and trigger critical sickness – known as invasive group A strep (iGAS). This remains to be unusual; nonetheless, it is crucial that oldsters are looking out for signs and see a health care provider as shortly as potential in order that their youngster will be handled and we are able to cease the an infection changing into critical. Make positive you discuss to a well being skilled in case your youngster is exhibiting indicators of deteriorating after a bout of scarlet fever, a sore throat, or a respiratory an infection.
