Written question WQ86938

The recent deaths of children across the UK, including a child here in Wales, has caused a great deal of concern. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families, friends and all those impacted by these tragic deaths.

We are seeing a higher number of cases of strep A infection this year compared to recent years and we are also seeing it during the winter, when ordinarily we would expect to see large numbers of cases during the spring. It is this infection that causes scarlet fever among other illnesses. Investigations are ongoing but we believe this is likely to have occurred because of the lack of social mixing over the past couple of years.

The higher number of cases of this common bacterial infection circulating at the same time as a range of winter respiratory infections has, we believe, resulted in increased numbers of the rarer and more serious invasive group A strep also known as iGAS.

We continue to work closely with Public Health Wales (PHW), the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and other devolved governments to monitor the situation. PHW is increasing its surveillance capability in response to the reported increase in strep A infections and is working to ensure that clear and concise guidance is provided to the NHS, education settings and parents/guardians.

PHW has also convened a multi-agency incident management team, with officials establishing an equivalent group within the Welsh Government to co-ordinate the response.

GP practices are reporting an increased demand for face-to-face assessment of acutely unwell children because of concern around strep A infection. GPs and their teams have been asked to prioritise patients with the most urgent need to ensure capacity is directed to the right people.

Health boards are putting additional measures in place to assist with increasing demand.

The increase in demand for antibiotics to treat suspected cases of strep A has led to some pharmacies in Wales experiencing shortages of stock particularly of penicillin. We are working with the UK Government medicines supply team and other partners to make sure pharmacies in Wales have the supplies they need.

Nurseries, schools, and childcare settings have received guidance from PHW, with staff being made aware of the possibility of this infection in children who become ill with a fever, sore throat or rash.

Public Health Wales has reminded parents that cases of invasive group A strep remain rare and that children have a very low risk of contracting the disease despite the rise in cases. Parents and carers are advised to seek medical advice if they are concerned about their child.