Both the NHS and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention don’t differentiate between adults and children when it comes to symptoms.
The inside of your or your child’s throat could reveal the bacterial infection, with the back of the throat often showing white spots or streaks of pus. You can also notice red and swollen tonsils. Furthermore, strep throat can start very quickly and cause you pain when you swallow.
According to the health bodies, the most “common symptoms” of strep A include:
- Flu-like symptoms (high temperature, swollen glands or an aching body)
- Sore throat (strep throat or tonsillitis)
- Rash that feels rough, like sandpaper (scarlet fever)
- Scabs and sores (impetigo)
- Pain and swelling (cellulitis)
- Severe muscle aches
- Nausea and vomiting.
The NHS said: “Most strep A infections are not serious and can be treated with antibiotics. But rarely, the infection can cause serious problems. This is called invasive group A strep (iGAS).”
Dr Colin Brown, deputy director of the UKHSA, said: “Very rarely, the bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause more serious illness called invasive Group A strep.
“We know that this is concerning for parents, but I want to stress that while we are seeing an increase in cases in children, this remains very uncommon.”
If your child has symptoms of this infection, visit NHS.uk, contact 111 online or your GP surgery so they can be assessed for treatment.
READ MORE: ‘Be vigilant’: Dr Hilary shares Strep A ‘red flag’ symptoms
