Nine children have now died in the UK following an infection with Strep A. Strep A is a type of bacteria that can cause a number of illnesses and conditions such as scarlet fever.
For the majority, coming into contact with Strep A bacteria will give them mild cold-like symptoms or a sore throat, but some people can become very ill. Strep A infections can become invasive, which is when the bacteria reaches the blood or internal organs, causing a number of life-threatening conditions.
The symptoms of a Strep A infection are similar among both adults and children, but the symptoms of a serious complication as a result of the infection are more severe, reports Yorkshire Live.