Signs of a Strep A infection
There have been widespread cases of Strep A in the United Kingdom, which has resulted in the deaths of nine children across the country, including one in Northern Ireland.
The HSE has stated that it is conducting an investigation into the death of a child who was four years old and who lived in the Dublin region. Strep A is one of the likely causes of death in this case.
In order to reduce the number of people who become infected with streptococcus A, it is imperative that parents be aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease.
What is the Strep A virus?
Strep A bacteria are capable of causing a wide variety of infections, which can range from relatively minor illnesses to conditions that can be fatal. The bacterium can frequently be found in the throat as well as on the skin, despite the fact that many people with the infection have no symptoms.
Impetigo, scarlet fever, and strep throat are just a few of the illnesses that can be brought on by strep A. The number of people diagnosed with scarlet fever has recently increased at an alarming rate. Even while the majority of infections are not particularly severe, the bacteria have the potential to produce a condition known as invasive Group A Streptococcal disease, which is a condition that can be fatal.
What does invasive Group A Streptococcal disease mean?
When germs penetrate other sections of the body, such as the blood, the deep muscles, or the lungs, it can lead to an infection that is potentially fatal. Necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome are two of the most severe forms of invasive sickness that can affect a person.
If an infection develops in a wound, a condition known as necrotizing fasciitis, commonly called the “flesh-eating sickness,” might manifest itself.
Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome is a fast-deteriorating infection that can cause low blood pressure or shock, in addition to the damage to organs such as the kidneys, liver, and lungs. This infection is associated with a significant fatality rate due to its severity.
How do the Strep A bacteria get passed around?
The germs can be passed on by direct contact with an infected individual or through contact with skin sores that are infected. Bacteria can be spread by close touches, such as kissing or skin-to-skin contact, and can even be inhaled.
When a person is sick and has strep throat or an infected wound, the likelihood of them passing on this sickness to someone else is at its maximum.
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Are there any treatments available for these illnesses?
Antibiotics are the standard course of treatment for Strep A infections such as scarlet fever and impetigo. Anyone who could be suffering from invasive Group A Streptococcal illness ought to get medical attention as soon as possible. Antibiotics and possibly additional medications, in addition to close medical supervision, will most likely be required.
When should I make an appointment with a physician?
The pain that comes with strep throat is not like that of a typical sore throat, and it can come on quite suddenly. If a person’s sore throat does not get better, if they are worried, if they have a high temperature, or if they feel hot and shivery, it is recommended they visit their primary care physician.
Impetigo is a skin illness that manifests itself first as blisters or sores that get red and eventually burst, leaving behind crusty, yellowish patches. Antibiotics are a viable treatment option for the infection.
The symptoms of scarlet fever are frequently similar to those of the flu and include a high temperature, a sore throat, and swollen glands in the neck.
After 12 to 48 hours, the patient develops a rash that begins on the chest and stomach before spreading across the body.
The tongue will also develop a white coating, which will eventually peel off, leaving it red, swollen, and covered in small bumps (this condition is commonly referred to as “strawberry tongue”).
The presence of fever (a temperature that is higher than 38 degrees Celsius), intense pain and swelling, and redness at the incision site are all indicators of necrotizing fasciitis.
Fever, dizziness, confusion, low blood pressure, rash, and stomach discomfort are some of the early signs and symptoms that might be associated with toxic shock.
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FAQ
How do you get Strep A?
The nose and throat are common places for strep A bacteria to live. People who have the bacteria spread it when they talk, cough, or sneeze, which makes droplets that carry the bacteria. People can get sick if they: Breathe in droplets from their nose or mouth that have bacteria on them.