The recent outbreak of a killer bacteria, Strep A or Group A Streptococcus, in Australia, has resulted in dozens of deaths of children in the UK and is now spreading across Australia. In the past three months, the cases of this deadly bacteria have doubled in Western Australia and there has been a spike in cases in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.
Strep A is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the throat and skin. It can cause a number of different illnesses, including strep throat, scarlet fever, and impetigo. In some cases, the bacteria can cause more serious illnesses, such as meningitis, sepsis, and necrotizing fasciitis, which can be deadly if left untreated.
The symptoms of Strep A infection can vary from person to person but may include a sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a red rash. If left untreated, Strep A can cause serious complications, including organ failure and even death. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as any of these symptoms become apparent.
If any of the symptoms of a sore throat, fever, dizziness, headache, or abdominal pain are noticed, parents are encouraged to seek medical help right away.
Over 600,000 people globally die from Strep A each year, with 190 people in England losing their lives to the condition in the winter of 2022, including 30 children.
In New South Wales, 137 cases of invasive group A streptococcus were recorded between September and December, and 36 cases of meningococcal disease were reported for the entirety of the year.