GPs say parents need clearer strep A advice

GP leaders have urged the government to put out clearer advice for parents about when to seek help over potential strep A infections.

Prof Kamila Hawthorne, of the Royal College of GPs, said many surgeries were struggling with the extra demand on top of existing pressures.

The government should consider "overspill" services for surgeries unable to cope, she said.

Since September, 15 UK children have died after invasive strep A infections.

This includes the death of one child in Wales, and one in Northern Ireland. There have been no deaths confirmed in Scotland.

The UK Health Security Agency figures (UKHSA) show there have also been 47 deaths from strep A in adults in England.

Most strep A infections are mild, but more severe invasive cases - while still rare - are rising.

Prof Hawthorne, said: "We do not want to discourage patients who are worried about their children to seek medical attention, particularly given the current circumstances.

"But we do want to see good public health messaging across the UK, making it clear to parents when they should seek help and the different care options available to them - as well as when they don't need to seek medical attention."

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Source: BBC News, 8 December 2022