Strep A spreads in Europe – Increased cases in France, Ireland, Netherlands, Spain and Sweden

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While the vast majority of infections are relatively mild, in extremely rare cases the bacteria can cause invasive group A strep (iGAS) — a complication that can be life-threatening.

Alarm has been raised across Europe as Strep A spreads. In addition to United Kingdom unusually increased cases are also seen in France, Ireland, Netherlands, Spain and Sweden, according to the World Health Organization.

The bacterial infection, which is usually mild, has so far killed at least 16 children in the UK. Although the number seems relatively low, it is actually particularly high for the time.

While the vast majority of infections are relatively mild, in extremely rare cases the bacteria can cause invasive group A strep (iGAS) — a complication that can be life-threatening. Two of the more serious, but rare, forms of this invasive disease are necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.

In a joint statement, the WHO and the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) warned of an increase in cases since last September in children under the age of 10. However, the WHO noted that only some European countries are notifying it of Strep A and iGAS infections, so cases may be higher.

Strep A cases usually peak during the winter months and early spring. But in Britain and France, cases in recent months have been “many times higher than pre-pandemic levels”.

The UK has recorded 169 iGAS infections in children aged 14 and under as of September. The UK, Ireland, France and Spain have reported deaths among children. Officials are also warning companies that supply the vital antibiotics used to treat the infection that they will be fined if price gouging is found.

The WHO noted that the increase in strep A came after a “period of reduced frequency of infections” during the pandemic. At the same time, he urged countries to boost vaccination against Covid and flu – as avoiding these viruses will likely reduce the risk of a child developing iGAS.

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