[ad_1]
15 children under the age of 15 in the UK have now died from invasive strep, figures show.
Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows that 13 children under the age of 15 have died from strep A in England since September. Two other such child deaths have been reported in Northern Ireland and Wales, bringing the UK total to 15.
Group A strep bacteria can cause many different infections ranging from minor illnesses to life-threatening illnesses. Illnesses include the skin infection impetigo, scarlet fever and strep throat.
While most infections are relatively mild, sometimes the bacteria can cause a life-threatening illness called invasive group A streptococcal disease.
The UKHSA has said there is no evidence a new strain is circulating and the increase in cases is likely due largely to the high volume of circulating bacteria and increased social mixing.
Pharmacists continue to use social media to complain about shortages of antibiotics, including the liquid version of penicillin, which is often given to children.
The Health Secretary, Steve Barclay, said on Wednesday that an investigation within the Department of Health and Social Care had not revealed any problems with the supply of drugs.
However, the National Pharmacy Association has pointed to “blips” in the supply chain of liquid penicillin, while the Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies said pharmacists across the country are struggling to get all the supplies they need.
[ad_2]
Source link
