The Department of Health has urged anyone concerned about their child's health to contact their GP.
It comes as social media posts have circulated online in the last number of days, stating that pharmacies can test for Strep A and issue antibiotics - this is untrue, the Department has confirmed.
On Wednesday afternoon, a statement read: "Posts circulating on social media advising parents/carers to go to their local pharmacy for Strep A testing and antibiotics are untrue.
Read more: Strep A symptoms outlined by PHA as parents urged to be alert for signs of infection.
"Parents/carers who suspect their child may have scarlet fever are strongly urged to contact their GP for diagnosis as prompt treatment with appropriate antibiotics significantly reduces the risk of complications.
"Pharmacies do not offer a Strep A screening service and cannot supply antibiotics without a prescription."
The Public Health Agency has said parents and guardians should be on alert for the signs of group A streptococcal (GAS) infections. Group A streptococcus bacteria usually cause a mild infection producing sore throats or scarlet fever that can be easily treated with antibiotics.
"In very rare circumstances, these bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause serious illness – called invasive Group A strep," a spokesperson added.
"As well as an increase in notifications of scarlet fever, which is above the levels we usually see at this time of year, the PHA is also aware of a higher number of cases of iGAS being reported across the UK.
"While iGAS is still uncommon, it is important that parents are on the lookout for symptoms of illnesses caused by group A streptococcus bacteria and seek medical advice so that their child can be treated appropriately and to help prevent the infection becoming serious.
"Scarlet fever mainly affects children under 10, but people of any age can get it. In the early stages, symptoms include a sore throat, headache, and fever, along with a fine, pinkish or red body rash with a sandpapery feel. On darker skin, the rash can be more difficult to detect visually but will have a sandpapery feel.
"The PHA is asking parents to contact their GP if they suspect their child has scarlet fever, because early treatment with antibiotics is important to reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia or a bloodstream infection."
Dr Joanne McClean, Director of Public Health at the PHA, added: "Scarlet fever usually clears up after about a week, but anyone who thinks they or a child may have it should contact a GP for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
"To limit the spread of scarlet fever it is also important to practice good hygiene by washing hands with warm water and soap, not sharing drinking glasses or utensils, and covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. People should also stay away from nursery, school or work for 24 hours after taking the first dose of antibiotics."
Further information is available from the Public Health Agency website here.
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