An increase in the prevalence of Strep A has been causing concern for families across the country. Already, 15 children under the age of 15 have tragically died, and while there have been no deaths in Scotland so far, case numbers have risen to 13. Health officials believe that increased mixing compared to the last two winters is what has led to the rise in cases this year.
While Strep A infections commonly cause only minor illness, in certain cases it can be life-threatening, causing a range of symptoms ranging from just a sore throat and high temperature, to scarlet fever, a disease which must be notified to health professionals to ensure an outbreak does not spread.
While disinformation has been spreading across the internet claiming that Strep A cases are linked to nasal flu vaccines, this has absolutely no basis. Sandesh Gulhane, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health, Social Care and Sport, tweeted:
‘I want to be absolutely clear that Strep A in kids has NOTHING to do with nasal flu vaccines. Do NOT believe this fake news. I asked 3 questions about this in Parliament today and we need to keep a close eye on this going forward’.
In these questions, Gulhane has helped hold the Scottish Government to account over the issue, ensuring transparency in how they are planning to handle the growing crisis and fight disinformation. As infections rise, GPs have already called for parents and the public to be given more information around the risks of Strep A. Therefore, ensuring that the government’s strategy is broadcast from parliament is vital for handling the outbreak.
There has yet to be a reported death in Scotland from Strep A. This is welcome news, however, both the government and opposition must keep the public updated to this issue, to ensure that Scotland is as prepared as possible to fight Strep A this winter.