At least 19 children have now died due to Strep A in the UK, according to new figures. Since September, 16 children under the age of 18 have died in England, data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveals.
The deaths of three other children in Belfast and Wales takes the UK total to 19. It is understood that health officials do not believe the number of scarlet fever infections has yet peaked, which suggests more deaths from the illness are likely.
Group A strep bacteria can cause many different infections, which range from minor illness to life-threatening diseases. Illnesses caused by Strep A include the skin infection impetigo, scarlet fever and strep throat.
