Scarlet fever cases are higher than average in the UK, reports the UK Health Security Agency.

Between November 14 and November 20 there were 851 cases reported in the UK, compared to an average of 186 for the preceding years.

Newly released figures show the current cases in Herefordshire.

Scarlet fever is “usually a mild illness, but it is highly infectious”, according to the UKHSA.

It’s caused by the bacteria group A streptococci, and in very rare occasions, this bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause invasive Group A Strep.

Occurring most often in the winter and spring, symptoms include a rash, a sore throat, flushed cheeks and swollen tongue.

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Health officials are understood to have seen a slight rise in cases of Strep A, which can cause scarlet fever, though deaths and serious complications from the infection are rare.

Nine children in the UK are known to have died with a form of Strep A over recent weeks.

Scarlet fever cases in Herefordshire

Data released by the UKHSA has revealed how many cases of scarlet fever have been reported in Herefordshire.

In the last month, from November 7 to December 4, there has been a total of 14 cases, with 23 in neighbouring Worcestershire.

Six of these cases came in the last week.

Week ending December 4: six cases

Week ending November 27: five cases

Week ending November 20: three cases

Week ending November 13: no cases

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Downing Street has urged parents to be on the “lookout” for symptoms of Strep A bacteria after a rise in infections.

Officials said they can “fully understand” parents’ concern, but stressed the NHS is “well prepared” for such situations.

Asked about the recent rise in cases, the Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “We are seeing a higher number of cases of Group A strep this year compared to usual.

“The bacteria we know causes a mild infection which is easily treated with antibiotics and in rare circumstances it can get into the bloodstream and cause serious illness.

“It is still uncommon, but it’s important parents are on the lookout for symptoms.

“But the NHS is well prepared to deal with situations like this, working with the UK Health Security Agency.”

He said any parents who are concerned should contact the NHS.

What is Strep A?

Group A streptococcus (or Strep A) is known to cause scarlet fever, throat infections and, in very rare cases, invasive disease.

This can occur when bacteria get into parts of the body where bacteria are not usually found, such as the blood, muscle or the lungs.

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It can happen if the bacteria get past a person’s defences, such as through an open wound or when a person’s immune system is depleted.

Most people who come into contact with the bacteria remain well and symptom-free.

Strep A symptoms

The bacteria can be found in the throat and on the skin and people may carry it without displaying any symptoms.

It can live in throats and on hands for long enough to allow easy spread between people through sneezing, kissing and skin contact.

  • high fever
  • severe muscle aches
  • localised muscle tenderness
  • redness at site of a wound