The Public Health Agency has contacted all schools today regarding the increase in infections caused by Group A streptococcus bacteria compared to what is expected at this time of year. This is being seen primarily in children aged under 10 years.
Group A streptococcal infection usually causes a mild illness with symptoms such as skin infections, sore throat and fever. Scarlet fever, again usually a mild illness, is caused by Group A strep.
Notifications of scarlet fever have increased in recent weeks and the PHA are seeing higher numbers than usual for this time of year. This may in part be because of increased mixing patterns and lower levels of the infection over the past couple of years when COVID restrictions were in place.
Today, we were informed of another case of Scarlet Fever in St Mary’s. We encourage all parents to be alert to symptoms in your child, seek medical advice if required and do not send your child to school if they are unwell.
Scarlet fever symptoms
The symptoms of scarlet fever are non-specific in early illness and may include sore throat, headache, fever, nausea and vomiting. After 12 to 48 hours the characteristic red, generalised pinhead rash develops, typically first appearing on the chest and stomach, rapidly spreading to other parts of the body, giving the skin a sandpaper-like texture. On more darkly-pigmented skin, the scarlet rash may be harder to spot, although the sandpaper feel should be present. Patients typically have flushed cheeks and paleness around the mouth. This may be accompanied by a ‘strawberry tongue’. During convalescence peeling of the skin may occur at the tips of fingers and toes and less often over wide areas of the trunk and limbs.
Parents should contact their GP if they spot symptoms of scarlet fever or have concerns.
Further information about scarlet fever and Group A Strep is available on the PHA website:
https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/news/scarlet-fever
https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/news/public-urged-be-alert-signs-group-strep
and also on nidirect:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/conditions/scarlet-fever
Please also see the photos below for signs and symptoms of Scarlet Fever.
