THE number of cases of scarlet fever recorded in Jersey this month is more than double usual December figures.
A total of 40 cases of the bacteria-based bug have been seen, with parents being advised to be ‘vigilant to symptoms’.
Scarlett fever, which mainly affects children and young people, is caused by the bacteria group known as Strep A, and although infections are usually mild, they can develop into the more serious invasive Group A Strep infection, which has led to the deaths of at least 19 children in the UK since September.
Director of public health Peter Bradley said: ‘I’d urge parents to be vigilant to symptoms and seek medical advice from your GP, or the out-of-hours GP service.
‘Early treatment with antibiotics is important to reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia or a bloodstream infection, so it’s important to spot the symptoms and act quickly. Children aged two years to school year 11, who have not had their annual flu vaccination can receive these now from their GP surgeries.
‘Individuals are at greater risk of severe infection if they have had recent flu or chickenpox and parents and individuals should keep this in mind especially if their symptoms start to get worse.
‘The best ways to prevent the spread of scarlet fever is to follow good respiratory, hand and environmental hygiene, by covering noses and mouths when coughing and sneezing, washing hands for 20 seconds and keeping surfaces clean. ‘The use of alcohol hand gel on entry into public venues and to maintain good ventilation is also to be encouraged. ‘These measures also offer the protection from other seasonal illnesses, which are circulating in high levels.’
Symptoms to watch out for…
A sore throat.
Headache.
Nausea and vomiting.
A fever of 38°C or higher
A fine pinkish or red body rash with a sandpapery feel. This rash comes with a red face, except the area around the mouth.
A white coating around the tongue which then peels leaving a red swollen tongue.
