Dear Parents and Carers

 

I hope this letter finds you well,

 

I am sure you have heard in the Media of the rising cases of Scarlet Fever and Strep A across the country. We have now been sent guidance from the DfE and UKHSA. As a result of this, we are increasing our protective measures within school which will include:

 

• Increased handwashing for students, staff and visitors

• Recommended use of hand sanitiser stations

• Wiping down of surfaces and touch points throughout the school day

• Monitoring of CO2 monitors across whole school

• Increased ventilation by the opening of higher-level windows

 

UKHSA is reporting an increased number of cases of Group A streptococcus (Strep A) compared to normal at this time of year. There is no evidence that a new strain is circulating and the increase is most likely related to high amounts of circulating bacteria and social mixing.

 

What are scarlet fever and Strep A?

Scarlet fever is caused by bacteria called Group A streptococci (Strep A). The bacteria usually causes a mild infection that can be easily treated with antibiotics.

In very rare occasions, the bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause an illness called invasive Group A strep (iGAS).

 

What are the symptoms of Strep A/scarlet fever?

Strep A infections can cause a range of symptoms that parents should be aware of, including:

• Sore throat

• ​

• ​

• 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

If a child becomes unwell with these symptoms, please contact your GP practice or contact NHS 111 (which operates a 24/7 service) to seek advice.

If your child has scarlet fever, they should stay at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection to others.  Trust your own judgement and if your child seems seriously unwell call 999 or go to A&E if:

 

• a child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs

• there are pauses when a child breathes

• a child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue

• a child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake.

We have produced a Risk Assessment and are advised that if we have 2 or more scarlet fever cases within 10 days of each other, then we will work with UKHSA who will provide us with further guidance.

 

Many thanks for your time taken to read this letter and of course we will keep you informed of any further updates as we receive them.

 

Yours sincerely

 

 

Miss S Damerall

Headteacher