The NHS in Sussex has issued advice on winter illnesses following reports of Strep A.

Health and care leaders in Sussex have urged parents and guardians to be aware of symptoms of infections including Strep A and flu and to know what can be treated at home and when to get medical help.

Typically, Strep A infections are mild and treated easily with the antibiotic amoxicillin, which is used to treat bacterial infections. But an invasive form of the bacteria, known as iGAS, has increased this year, particularly in those under the age of 10.

It is believed nine children in the UK have died with a form of Strep A.

The NHS said flu can cause a fever, stuffy nose, dry cough, sore throat, aching muscles and joints, and extreme tiredness in children, which can last several days or longer.

It said in most cases, flu will be a “mild illness” in children, but that some can get a very high fever, sometimes without the usual flu symptoms, and may need to go to hospital for treatment.

Serious complications of flu include a painful ear infection, acute bronchitis, and pneumonia.

The NHS advises the best way for children to avoid flu is to be vaccinated against it.

The NHS also addressed reports of scarlet fever, commonly known as Strep A, which is caused by bacteria called group A streptococci (strep).

Scarlet fever is usually a mild illness, but it is highly infectious, said NHS Sussex.

Parents and guardians have been advised to watch out for symptoms including a sore throat, headache, fever, along with a fine, pinkish or red body rash with a sandpapery feel.

“On darker skin, the rash can be more difficult to detect visually, but will have a sandpapery feel,” said an NHS spokesman.

People have been advised to call the NHS on 111 or their GP practice if they suspect their child has scarlet fever, because early treatment of scarlet fever with antibiotics is "important" to reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia.

Contact NHS 111 or your GP practice if:

  • your child is getting worse
  • your child is feeding or eating much less than normal
  • your child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more or shows other signs of dehydration
  • your baby is under three months and has a temperature of 38°C, or is older than three months and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
  • your baby feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
  • your child is very tired or irritable.

Call 999 if:

  • your child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs
  • there are pauses when your child breathes
  • your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
  • your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake.

The NHS said good hand and respiratory hygiene are important for stopping the spread of many bugs.

And that children should be taught to wash their hands properly with soap for 20 seconds, to use a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and to keep away from others when feeling unwell.