Cases of potentially deadly Strep A and Scarlet Fever infections are on the rise in Suffolk and parents are being advised to contact NHS111 or their GP surgery if they think their child has symptoms. 

Figures from the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) for a period from mid-September to December 11 showed there had been 910 cases of Scarlet Fever in the east of England and 68 Strep A cases. 

Data for the period from mid-September to December 4, the week before, showed there had been 708 cases of Scarlet Fever and 59 of Strep A; therefore, there had been an increase of 202 cases of Scarlet Fever in a week, with a further nine Strep A cases. 

So far, 19 children across the UK have died from Strep A, while there have been 7,750 cases of Scarlet Fever reported so far this season- more than treble the figure at the same point during the last high season in 2017/18. 

Strep A is a bacterial disease that causes flu-like symptoms, including a high temperature, swollen glands and an aching body, as well as a rash that feels rough, like sandpaper. 

A spokesperson for Suffolk County Council’s public health team said: "Many people carry Group A Strep harmlessly and do not develop illness. It can be passed from person to person by close contact such as kissing or skin contact. 

"Most people who come into contact with Group A Strep remain well and symptom-free, some get mild throat or skin infections. Contracting invasive disease from a relative or household member is very rare. 

“There has been an increase in Strep A and associated infections such as Scarlet Fever both nationally and in Suffolk and we are seeing this increase earlier in the season than previous years.” 

He said concerned Suffolk residents should contact 111 online or their GP surgery if their child has symptoms so they can be assessed for treatment. 

Dr Smita Kapadia, consultant in communicable disease at UKHSA, said: “It is very rare that a child will go on to become more seriously ill, but as parents you know better than anyone else what your child is usually like, so you'll know when they are not responding as they would normally.  

“Make sure you speak to a healthcare professional if your child is getting worse after a bout of Scarlet Fever, a sore throat or respiratory infection – look out for signs such as a fever that won’t go down, dehydration, extreme tiredness, intense muscle pains, difficulty breathing or breathing very fast.”