Strep A is on the rise in the UK. Although it is not common, strep A is on the rise year after year, and we must all be aware of the symptoms and how to avoid passing on this potentially dangerous infection.
Also known as Streptococcus pyogenes, Strep A is a bacterium that can cause many infections in humans. This bacterium is responsible for various diseases, ranging from mild infections, such as strep throat, to severe and life-threatening conditions, like necrotising fasciitis. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for prompt diagnosis and effective management of these infections.
Causes
Strep A bacteria are highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated surfaces. The bacterium primarily enters the body through the throat or skin, leading to various infections depending on the entry site. The infection commonly occurs in crowded places like schools, hospitals, and prisons, where the bacteria can easily spread from person to person.
Strep A Symptoms
The symptoms may vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Strep throat, one of the most common strep A infections, is characterised by a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and swollen tonsils.
Other symptoms may include fever, headache, and fatigue.
In more severe cases, strep A can cause scarlet fever, characterised by a distinctive rash, high fever, and a strawberry-like appearance of the tongue.
Strep A infections can also manifest as skin infections, such as impetigo or cellulitis. Impetigo is characterised by red sores that rupture and develop a honey-coloured crust, while cellulitis causes skin redness, warmth, and swelling.
In rare cases, it can lead to necrotising fasciitis, a severe infection that affects the deep layers of the skin and can rapidly spread to surrounding tissues. Symptoms of necrotising fasciitis include severe pain, swelling, fever, and the presence of blisters or blackened skin.
Treatment
Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent complications and reduce the spread of the bacteria. Antibiotics are the primary treatment option for strep A, and the choice of antibiotic depends on the type and severity of the infection. In cases of strep throat, oral antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin are commonly prescribed, typically for 10 days.
For more severe infections, such as cellulitis or necrotising fasciitis, intravenous antibiotics are administered in a hospital setting. In addition to antibiotics, supportive care measures such as pain management, wound care, and surgical intervention may be necessary to manage severe strep A infections.
Prevention
Preventing the spread of strep A infections can be challenging due to the highly contagious nature of this infection. However, following some simple hygiene practices can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Regularly washing hands with soap and water, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing can help prevent the transmission of the bacteria. It would be best if you also considered wearing a mask to further reduce the risk of passing on the infection.
In certain cases, such as strep throat, completing the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the healthcare provider is crucial to prevent recurrent infections and the development of antibiotic resistance.
In conclusion, strep A is a bacterium that can cause various infections, ranging from mild to severe. Prompt diagnosis, appropriate antibiotic treatment, and adherence to preventive measures are essential for effectively managing strep A infections. If you experience symptoms suggestive of a strep A infection, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.
