What You Need To Know About Strep A Infections

What is Strep A?

A common type of bacteria in the throat or skin is streptococcus A (Strep A). These bacteria have been known to occasionally cause mild illnesses like tonsillitis or strep throat, as well as scabs and sores (impetigo). The infections are frequently minor but spread quickly and are very contagious. Scarlet fever, primarily affecting young children, can be caused by strep A bacteria. Antibiotics that manage the illness and lower the possibility of complications can be used to treat scarlet fever.

What are the symptoms of Strep A?

The following are the common symptoms of Strep A:

• flu-like symptoms, such as a fever, swollen glands

• sore throat or aching body (strep throat or tonsillitis) 

• a rash that resembles sandpaper in texture (scarlet fever) 

• sores and scabs (impetigo) 

• discomfort and swelling (cellulitis) (cellulitis) 

• severe muscular aches 

• nauseous and dizzy 

Children are more likely to acquire strep A infections, although adults can also have them. Antibiotics can treat most strep A infections, which are not dangerous. 

Nonetheless, the infection might occasionally result in major issues. It's known as invasive group A strep (iGAS).

Flu-like symptoms of scarlet fever you need to watch out for include an increase in temperature, sore throat, and swollen glands. "Strawberry tongue," which consists of tiny, raised bumps and a swollen tongue that resembles a strawberry's surface, and a body rash that feels rough to the touch, can be caused by these symptoms. 

Invasive Strep symptoms A infections include a temperature exceeding 38°C (high fever) and severe muscle aches. Check symptoms of dehydration in children, such as frequent urination, decreased appetite, unusually high or low blood pressure, and clammy skin.

What to do if your child is not feeling well?

Although it might be challenging to determine when a child is seriously ill, the most important thing is to trust your gut. You are the best person to know how your child behaves normally, so you can recognize when something is wrong. 

Most of the time, you can take care of your child at home if they don't appear to be very ill. In a few days, they might feel better. You can treat your child by giving them paracetamol or ibuprofen if they are not feeling good enough. To determine if the medication is right for your child and how much to give them, read the instructions on the bottle.

A pharmacist can examine your child and tell whether they need a checkup by the doctor or not.

How can you prevent a Strep A infection?

Often washing your hands with antibacterial soap will help lower your chances of developing or transmitting a Strep A infection. Staying at home and getting lots of rest can help stop the spread of infection if you feel unwell or your child becomes ill. During your recovery from some Strep A infections, over-the-counter medications like lozenges and cold/flu medicines can help you treat your symptoms.

When is Strep A serious?

The germs can, in rare cases, infiltrate the blood or the lungs. This condition is an invasive Streptococcal disease (also known as iGAS) and can result in more serious conditions like sepsis and pneumonia.