"Use your God-given gifts to serve others." 1 Peter 4: 10
I have been asked by the UK Health Security Agency to send this letter out to parents.
At this point, I have not been informed of any child in our school having a confirmed case of Scarlet Fever. However, given the alarming reporting in the media, it seems sensible to ensure that we ask children to wash their hands, use sanitizer and use a tissue to catch coughs/ sneezes. Please talk to your children about this over the weekend.
LETTER FROM UK HEALTH SECURITY AGENCY:
Dear Parent(s) / Carer(s),
Re: Increase in scarlet fever
We are writing to inform you of a recent national increase in notifications of scarlet fever to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), above seasonal expected levels.
We would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the signs, symptoms and the actions to be taken if you think that you or your child might have scarlet fever.
Signs and symptoms of scarlet fever
Scarlet fever is a common childhood infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, or group A Streptococcus (GAS). It is not usually serious, but should be treated with antibiotics to reduce the risk of complications (such as pneumonia) and spread to others. The early symptoms of scarlet fever include sore throat, headache, fever, nausea and vomiting. After 12 to 48 hours, the characteristic red, pinhead rash develops, typically first appearing on the chest and stomach, then rapidly spreading to other parts of the body, and giving the skin a sandpaper-like texture. The scarlet rash may be harder to spot on darker skin, although the 'sandpaper' feel should be present. Patients typically have flushed cheeks and might be pale around the mouth. This may be accompanied by a bright red ‘strawberry’ tongue.
If you think you, or your child, might have scarlet fever:
You can help stop the spread of infection through frequent hand washing and by not sharing eating utensils, clothes, bedding and towels. All contaminated tissues should be disposed of immediately.
Invasive Group A Strep (iGAS)
The same bacteria which cause scarlet fever can also cause a range of other types of infection such as skin infections (impetigo) and sore throat. In very rare cases, the bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause an illness called invasive group A strep (iGAS). Whilst still very uncommon, there has been an increase in iGAS cases this year, particularly in children under 10 years old. It is very rare for children with scarlet fever to develop iGAS infection.
As a parent, you should trust your own judgement.
Contact NHS 111 or your GP if:
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
If your child is in the care of the Children’s Community Nursing Team, Children’s Palliative Care Team you can also contact the Children’s Rapid Response Team
Stop the spread
During periods of high incidence of scarlet fever, there may also be an increase in outbreaks in schools, nurseries and other childcare settings. Children and adults with suspected scarlet fever should stay off nursery / school / work until 24 hours after the start of appropriate antibiotic treatment. You and your child can help to control the spread of infection and reduce the risk of catching one by:
We would encourage you to ensure that your child’s vaccinations are up to date to give them the best protection this winter. If you have missed some of your child’s routine vaccinations and wish to get up to date, please contact your health visitor or GP they will be able to advise you on how to do this.
Resources
Scarlet fever: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment