(LibertySociety.com) – A recent outbreak of Group A Streptococcal (iGAS) infections has killed eight children so far in the United Kingdom (UK). On December 6, The Sun reported the eighth child, a young student at Morelands Primary school in Waterlooville, Hampshire, had succumbed to the illness. Strep A typically presents with minor symptoms, but this particular strain is especially invasive.
Lost for words at this unfolding tragedy!
Eighth child dies of Strep A as cases of bacterial infection continue to rise.
A PRIMARY school pupil has become the eighth child to die after being diagnosed with Strep A.@NjbBari3@DavidJoffe64https://t.co/RQ5wL6AP9A
— Kate Pritchard (@KatePri14608408) December 5, 2022
Strep A is a bacterial infection affecting the throat and tonsils that can cause illnesses like strep throat, scarlet fever, and Rheumatic fever. The sickness is highly contagious and passes from person to person via respiratory droplets. While many can experience mild symptoms, sometimes, as in the cases in the UK, the results can be life-threatening. Children under the age of 10 are especially at risk for the invasive strain.
Headmistress Alison Syred-Paul said the school was “devastated” by the sad news regarding the young children and sent condolences out to the families affected by the loss. Dr. Jeff Foster attributed the seriousness of the infections to the fact that kids have not been regularly exposed to the bacteria in years because of the pandemic.
A spokesman for the UK’s prime minister urged parents to be on the lookout for sore throats and fevers — the most common symptoms. He said the National Health Service (NHS) is ready to handle the uptick in infections, which are typically treated with a round of antibiotics. Health officials say concerned families should contact NHS 111 if they notice symptoms in their children.
US officials have not yet noted a corresponding surge in the United States.
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