A throat infection, that has killed 12 people, is spreading across Essex, with 32 cases of invasive Group A streptococcal (also known as GAS, or Strep A) having been recorded so far.
This disease has being reported to be passed on by kissing, sneezing and skin-to-skin contact.
The outbreak began in Braintree, Essex, but has also been detected in nearby Chelmsford and Maldon. The infection is a 'common bug found on the skin, in the throat and in the genitals,' said Clinical Director at London Doctors Clinic, Dr Preethi Daniel. It can be spread by kissing and close contact.
Dr. Preethi explains that Strep A is 'not a different or new bug', but has proven so deadly because the recent outbreak has manifested as a blood infection that has been spread in quick succession.
'Invasive GAS refers to an infection and is essentially sepsis, a blood infection,' the doctor says. 'Just like sepsis, it can be deadly if not treated in time and can have disastrous complications such as toxic shock syndrome.'
The BBC reports that Public Health England has suggested the 32 cases may be linked with community nursing treatment. As a result, community nurse bases are being deep-cleaned to prevent any further spread.
How does Strep A spread?
'GAS can be transmitted by close contact such as respiratory droplets (sneezing), skin-to-skin contact, sharing towels or sharing cutlery,' says Dr Preethi. 'If somebody has skin or soft tissue infections, tonsillitis or an upper respiratory tract infection, it is best to avoid close contact with them.
'Not sharing cutlery, plates or kissing them would be a good start [to avoid catching the infection]. Washing your hands with warm water and soap after coming in contact with a person with common infections is always a sensible idea,' she adds.
What are the symptoms of invasive Group A streptococcal?
As GAS can cause common infections, look out for the following signs and symptoms:
Sore throat;
Fever;
Aches and pains!
Redness of a wound;
Pus from a wound;
Skin rashes that are weeping.
If you notice any of the above symptoms, 'seek help from your GP sooner rather than later for a test,' advises Dr. Preethi.