The Latest Breaking News from Antibiotics

Pharmacists say they are struggling to get their hands on antibiotics to treat Strep A infections - despite the government insisting there is no shortage

"Pharmacies do not offer a Strep A screening service and cannot supply antibiotics without a prescription"

UK outbreak has already led to the deaths of several children but health secretary insists no shortage of antibiotics available

Infection caused by Strep A bacteria is usually a mild illness that is treated with antibiotics

PM was asked about the infection situation in the House of Commons

There has been a rise in cases of Strep A in the UK

The bacteria usually causes mild infections such as tonsillitis and scarlet fever, but in rare cases it can cause severe illnesses which have caused the deaths of eight children

Health secretary says government ‘not aware’ of issue but some independent outlets say stocks running low

Abbas Kanani says common mistakes people make when treating themselves for a winter bug won't help, and could make things worse

There has been a significant increase in the number of children with strep A infections in the UK over the past month compared with the same period in previous years. Sadly, nine children have died as a result of complications of this bacterial infection.

‘We simply cannot get the products. It’s patchy,’ industry boss says