Strep A has been confirmed at another Bradford primary school.

Thornton Primary School issued the health update in a letter to parents and guardians of pupils on December 12, 2022.

Headteacher Elizabeth Davison said: “I am writing to let you know that we have received confirmation of a case of Strep A /Scarlet Fever in your child's year group.

“The infected person was last in school on December 9.

“We are following advice from our local health protection team in terms of limiting the spread of infection.”

It comes after health chiefs in West Yorkshire urged parents to stay on high alert over Strep A symptoms in children.

Cases of Group A Streptococcus – also known as scarlet fever or ‘GAS’ – are rising across the UK with at least 15 deaths now linked to iGAS.

iGAS - invasive Group A Streptococcal - is a rare complication of Strep A infection and can lead to severe issues.

In most cases, Strep A bacteria is often found in people’s throats and skin - meaning many may carry it without displaying any symptoms.

But it can cause both mild and more serious infections – from a sore throat and headache to a body rash.

There has been an increase in Strep A cases particularly in children under the age of 10, the NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board confirmed.

Strep A infection symptoms

  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • Fever
  • A fine, pinkish or red body rash. On darker skin the rash can be more difficult to detect visually - check for a sandpapery feel when rubbing your hand over the skin

Strep A symptoms in babies

  • Drinking or eating much less than normal
  • A dry nappy or hasn’t passed wee for 12 hours or more
  • Shows other signs of dehydration
  • Feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest
  • Feels sweaty
  • Irritable

I suspect my child has Strep A – what should I do now?

People who identify any Strep A symptoms in their child should contact the NHS via the 111 line, the 111 online help page or GP surgery.

Early treatment with oral antibiotics is important to reduce the risk of complications, such as pneumonia or a bloodstream infection.

If your child has scarlet fever keep them at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection to others.

Parents and carers are advised to call 999 or go to A&E only if:

  • Your child is having noisy or difficulty breathing
  • There are pauses in your child’s breathing
  • Your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
  • Your child is floppy, drowsy and/or will not wake up

‘Choose the right help’

Dr James Thomas, medical director for NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board said: “We are seeing many more children than usual in our urgent and emergency departments. It is important that parents and carers understand where to seek help depending on the symptoms being exhibited.

“For the more serious symptoms, an emergency department is the correct place, but for the milder symptoms of scarlet fever, visit NHS111 online or call your GP to stop the spread of the infection and ensure emergency services are kept for those seriously ill. Having too many children in our emergency departments who only have mild illnesses means that our doctors and nurses cannot give their full attention to those who are really ill.”

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