Scarlet fever bacteria and flu are posing a serious risk to children this winter, parents have been warned.
A scarlet fever outbreak has led to a series of deaths of children from invasive Group A strep, the UK Health Security Agency has warned.
Cases of scarlet fever are running at more than four times the usual rate while there have been five deaths of children under the age of ten, the agency said.
The agency warned there have been reports of unusually high rates of lower respiratory tract infection caused by the bacteria – but there is no evidence of a new strain.
In total 851 cases of scarlet fever were reported in one week in November compared with 186 in previous years, the agency said.
In the winter of 2017-18 there were four deaths of children under the age of ten from invasive Group A strep.
The agency deputy director Dr Colin Brown said: “We are seeing a higher number of cases of Group A strep this year than usual. The bacteria usually cause a mild infection producing sore throats or scarlet fever that can be easily treated with antibiotics.
“In very rare circumstances, these bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause serious illness – called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). This is still uncommon; however, it is important that parents are on the lookout for symptoms and see a doctor as quickly as possible so that their child can be treated and we can stop the infection becoming serious.”
NHS England also warned of a “surge” of serious cases of flu among infants, calling on parents to ensure their children are vaccinated before Christmas.
The number of children in hospital with the virus is currently 20 times as many as last year – with 230 in hospital.
NHS medical director Professor Sir Stephen Powis said: “It is very encouraging to see good flu vaccination uptake already but as we go through winter and we spend more time indoors, respiratory diseases become more prevalent so it is vital we do whatever we can to protect ourselves and others.
“Flu when you are pregnant can cause complications and evidence suggests it could cause your baby to be born prematurely. Young children can also be at risk, especially if they have long-term health conditions, and we have seen an increase in hospitalisations in recent weeks.
“So, our message to pregnant women and parents of young children alike is it’s not too late to come forward for this vital protection.”
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