Strep A case concerns lead to a warning on attending in person from NHS Grampian
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NHS Grampian has said that the Emergency Department at the Royal Aberdeen Children's Hospital is under increasing pressure due to parents' understandable concerns that their child has Strep A infection.
Waiting times in children's ED has been exceeding four hours at times, particularly during the evenings and weekends.
They are refering families to the advice by Professor Steve Turner, one of their Paediatric Consultants, with useful information for helping your child before you contact health professionals:
"Streptococcus is a common bacteria all of us have in our breathing tubes. It lives with us in harmony most of time, " said Prof Turner.
"If you get a cold or virus it can upset that peaceful relationship we have with strep and cause a sore throat.
"More rarely, it can allow bacteria to move into the bloodstream and cause serious illness.
"I can understand why parents may be worried.
"But parents know their child better than anybody else and are in a really strong position to know if their child is just a bit unwell or really unwell.
"At this time of year, coughs, colds and sore throats are very commonplace.
"If a child is difficult to wake up, if they have cold arms and legs or are not passing any urine these are much more serious symptoms I think most parents would be very quick to spot.
"Make sure children are up to date with their vaccinations.
"If your child is unwell with a temperature, give them some paracetamol or ibuprofen to bring down their temperature and a little sugary drink such as milk or orange juice.
"After about 30/40 mins, if the child is not better then parents might need to think about calling NHS 24."
Parents and carers may be understandably concerned about a rise in Strep A infections among children.
The UK Health Security Agency has this advice link: https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2022/10/25/5-ways-to-protect-your-under-5s-this-winter/
Please note, after 12 months old, a temperature of higher than 39C on its own is not a specific risk factor.
