What to do if you think your child has Strep A

Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Health officials are now urging parents to look out for symptoms of scarlet fever in their children following a spike in cases driven by a recent increase in Strep A infections. Data released by the UK Health Security Agency indicates that the number of scarlet fever cases remains significantly higher than would typically be expected at this time of year. open image in gallery Early treatment of Strep A is important The UKHSA advises contacting NHS 111 or your GP if you suspect your child has scarlet fever, because early treatment of the illness with antibiotics is important in reducing the risk of complications such as pneumonia or a bloodstream infection. Health officials say you should contact NHS 111 or your GP 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 old and has a temperature of 38C, or is older than three months and has a temperature of 39C 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 In more serious cases, you should call 999 or go to A&E if: