UK: 6 children die of Streptococcus A infections

This is the warning issued by the health authorities this Friday in the United Kingdom. In question: The death of six children as a result of invasive infections with Streptococcus A, a bacterium in particular of the origin of scarlet fever, a benign disease whose cases are increasing dramatically in this country, they announced this Friday.

The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) urged parents to be vigilant after five deaths were reported in England this season among children under 10 years of age within seven days of being diagnosed with invasive group A streptococcal infection. A sixth death has been recorded in Wales.

In the most recent season of Streptococcus A infections (2017-2018), four deaths of children under 10 years of age were reported in England. Health authorities are seeing an increase in this type of invasive infection compared to the seasons leading up to the Covid-19 pandemic. Streptococcus A can cause both mild and fatal infections, especially when they enter the bloodstream, such as tonsillitis, impetigo (a skin infection), and scarlet fever.

Increasing incidence of scarlet fever

Health authorities are also investigating after reports of serious respiratory infections caused by the bacteria. However, “there is no evidence that the new strain is in circulation,” the British agency explains, estimating that the likely reason for the increase in the number of infections lies in the increase in bacterial circulation and contacts.

Scarlet fever, usually a mild but highly contagious disease, has risen significantly, with 851 cases reported in the week of November 14-20, compared to an average of 186 for the same time in previous years. Streptococcus A “usually causes a mild infection, sore throat or scarlet fever, which is easily treated with antibiotics,” Colin Brown, deputy director of the health security agency, said in a statement.

“On rare occasions, this bacterium can enter the bloodstream and cause serious illnesses called invasive streptococcal A infections,” which remain “uncommon,” he added, urging parents to monitor symptoms and consult as soon as possible so their children can be treated quickly while the infection did not become serious.