6 children died in England due to bacterial infection called “Strep A”.
The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) confirmed that 6 children, 5 of them under the age of 10, have died due to Strep A infection since September.
UKHSA warned families to be careful against the infection and pointed out that the incidence of the disease is higher compared to previous years.
UKHSA estimated that the increase is most likely due to the high circulation of the bacteria in the community.
A 4-year-old boy struggles to survive on a respirator
Experts also noted that the general increase in Strep A infections may be due to a drop in immunity following the COVID-19 pandemic.
On the other hand, a 4-year-old girl who contracted Strep A has been struggling to survive on a ventilator in a Liverpool hospital since November 28.
What is Strep A bacteria?
Strep A is a bacterium that usually settles in people’s throat and skin and is known to cause colds and swollen throats from time to time.
The bacteria cause rashes and skin infections in some parts of the body, and in some cases can lead to serious complications and death.
The bacteria that cause the disease can live on the hands or throat long enough to spread easily between people through sneezing, coughing and close contact.
