Scarlet fever: Southampton experts give advice over Strep A concerns

It comes as figures show how many people have caught the disease in Southampton and the surrounding areas in the past few weeks.

According to the UK Health Security Agency, nine cases were reported in Southampton in the week ending December 4.

Other areas affected included Eastleigh (five cases), Fareham (five), New Forest (four), Test Valley (three) and Gosport (two).

Parents are being urged to seek medical help if they suspect their child has scarlet fever (Image: PA)

Scarlet fever is caused by Strep A, which normally triggers only a mild infection but has been linked to the deaths of at least 15 children across the UK.

Dr Freya Pearson, deputy chief medical officer and a consultant at Southampton Children’s Hospital, said: "Our Children’s Emergency Department is currently seeing considerably higher numbers than usual, with parents understandably anxious about Strep A.

"However, this has not translated into a large increase in admissions of poorly children.

"It's important that parents know the symptoms to look out for so their child can be treated early and stop any infection becoming more serious.

"We'd encourage them to trust their own judgement and seek medical attention if they feel the child’s condition has become serious or life-threatening."

Parents are being urged to seek medical help if they suspect their child has scarlet fever (Image: PA)

Symptoms include a sore throat, headache and fever, followed 12-48 hours later by a sandpaper-like rash on the chest and abdomen that gives rise to the name scarlet fever.

Debbie Chase, director of public health at Southampton City Council, said scarlet fever could affect children of all ages.

Parents who think their child has scarlet fever should speak to their GP, call NHS 111 or use NHS 111 online so the infection can be quickly treated with antibiotics, said Dr Chase.

"Children with suspected scarlet fever should not attend nursery or school for 24 hours after the commencement of antibiotic treatment.

"Spread of infection can be prevented by good hand and respiratory hygiene - catching sneezes in disposable tissues, placing them in the bin and washing hands - and by keeping away from others when feeling unwell.

"Parents and carers should trust their instincts when they think their child is seriously unwell and seek urgent medical advice."

The NHS says parents should contact NHS 111 or their GP if:

• Their child is getting worse.

• Their child is feeding or eating much less than normal.

•  Their child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more or shows other signs of dehydration.

•  Their baby is under three months and has a temperature of 38C, or is older than three months and has a temperature of 39C or higher.

•   Their baby's back or chest feels hotter than usual.

•   Their child is very tired or irritable.

Parents should call 999 or go to A&E if:

•   Their child is having difficulty breathing – parents may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs.

•   There are pauses when their child breathes.

•   Their child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue.

•   Their child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake.

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