There has been a lot of publicity in recent days about children contracting Step A and/or scarlet fever.
We have put together information about both, plus advice on where to go for treatment and other online links that can give more help and advice.
What are the symptoms of Strep A/scarlet fever?
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Fever
- A fine, pinkish, or red body rash with a sandpapery feel. On darker skin the rash can be more difficult to detect visually but will still feel like sandpaper
Contact NHS 111 or your GP practice if you suspect your child has scarlet fever, because early treatment with antibiotics is important.
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.
Pharmacies are working hard to ensure they can dispense antibiotics when needed. They are asking people to be patient and if you are concerned about a delay in receiving medication, get advice from NHS 11 or your GP practice.
You should also contact NHS 111 or your GP practice 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 38C, or is older than 3 months and has a temperature of 39C 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.
Further advice and information
Be aware that NHS 111 and GP practices are very busy. You may have to wait longer than usual to get through to NHS 111 but please stay on the line.
If your child has been invited by their GP to have a nasal flu vaccine, please ensure they take the offer.
NHS Norfolk and Waveney has advice and information on its website here
Just One Norfolk also has advice and guidance about children’s health on its website. This includes a section on Strep A and Scarlet Fever here and you can find the Just One Norfolk homepage here
You can also contact Just One Norfolk by phone on 0300 300 0123 or by text on 07520 631590.
