Health officials have confirmed that deliveries of antibiotics to pharmacies across Northern Ireland for the treatment of strep A and other related viral infections are being accelerated in the coming days.
It follows reports of low supplies in some locations amid a surge in demand for antibiotic supplies to treat Group A Streptococcus infection.
A number of local chemists have reported difficulties obtaining amoxicillin and penicillin as concern over the infection grows.
Read more: PHA statement as number of scarlet fever cases confirmed at NI school
The Department of Health has said that more deliveries of antibiotics are expected in the coming days, which should help alleviate localised pressures.
A DoH spokesperson told Belfast Live: "Supplies of antibiotics for the treatment of Group A Streptococcus infection have seen a surge in demand over recent days and may be in limited supply at certain wholesalers and pharmacies, particularly penicillin preparations.
"Supplies remain readily available from manufacturers. Deliveries into wholesalers and pharmacies are being expedited and are expected in the coming days. These should help alleviate localised pressures.
"Where antibiotic therapy is required for the treatment of suspected Group A Streptococcus infection, prescribers and local pharmacy teams are working together to assess availability of antibiotics locally, and to order antibiotic stocks as appropriate in line with patient demand, ensuring that excessive quantities are not ordered to avoid putting more pressure on the supply chain."
Latest data continues to indicate an out of season increase in both scarlet fever and group A Strep infections.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says 16 children under 15 have died of Step A in the UK since September. Among those to have died was five-year-old Stella-Lily McCorkindale from Belfast.
Efforts have been made to raise awareness among parents and carers about the signs and symptoms.
The Education Authority (EA) has urged all parents and carers to be alert to the signs of group A strep and follow the latest public health guidance.
The EA has circulated a letter from the Public Health Agency (PHA) to all schools in Northern Ireland with advice and guidance on group A strep along with further resources for parents.
Anyone concerned that their child seems seriously unwell is advised to contact NHS 111 or their GP. Group A strep bacteria can cause many different infections, ranging from minor illnesses to deadly diseases.
Illnesses caused by Strep A include the skin infection impetigo, scarlet fever and strep throat. While the vast majority of infections are relatively mild, sometimes the bacteria cause a life-threatening illness called invasive Group A Streptococcal disease.
The UKHSA has said there is no current evidence that a new strain is circulating and the rise in cases is most likely due to high amounts of circulating bacteria and increased social mixing.
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