Some information on Strep A from Kent County Council.

The UK Health Security agency which provides advice to health professionals around infectious diseases issued the following advice to parents:

"As a parent, if you feel that your child seems seriously unwell, you should trust your own judgement.

Contact NHS 111 or your GP if:

• your child is getting worse

• your child is feeding or eating much less than normal

• your child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more or shows other signs of dehydration

• your baby is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38°C, or is older than 3 months and has a temperature of 39°C or higher

• your baby feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty

• your child is very tired or irritable Call 999 or go to A&E if:

• your child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs • there are pauses when your child breathes

• your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue

• your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake”

 The most important advice is to talk to a health professional if their child is showing signs of deterioration after a bout of scarlet fever, a sore throat, or a respiratory infection. Follow the NHS advice for getting the right support at the right time www.kentandmedwayccg.nhs.uk/your-health/local-services. In an emergency always call 999.

Good hand and respiratory hygiene can stop the spread of many bugs. Children should know how to wash their hands properly with soap for 20 seconds and should be encouraged to always use a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes.

Children should also know to stay away from people who are obviously unwell with coughs and colds, because it reduces the risk of picking up or spreading infections.