Strep A: Scarlet fever cases rising in Portsmouth, Gosport, Havant and Fareham

More cases of the contagious infection, caused by the Strep A bacteria, are popping up in several local authority areas. Symptoms of scarlet fever include include a sandpapery skin rash and a white coating on the tongue.

Even though the disease is becoming more prominent, it is usually mild and easily treatable with antibiotics. On rare occasions, the bacteria – group A streptococcus – can get into the bloodstream and cause a potentially deadly infection called invasive Group A Strep (iGAS).

NOW READ: Figures reveal scarlet fever cases in Portsmouth and Hampshire as concern rises

Figures reported on Thursday from the UK Health Security Agency (UKSHA) shows at least 19 children have died from the invasive variant. One of them was Jax Jefferys, 5, who died on December 1.

The boy was a pupil at Morelands Primary School in Crookhorn Lane, Waterlooville. His family described him as a ‘darling son’ and ‘little cheeky chappy’.

UKSA data highlights that there are 13 reported cases of scarlet fever in the Portsmouth local authority area in the week of December 11. This has increased from two the week before.

SEE ALSO: Waterlooville family pay tribute to 'cheeky little chappy' Jax Jefferys, 5, who died suddenly after contracting invasive virus

Cases have risen in Gosport, with three reported in the latest week compared to two, as well as Havant, eight from zero, Fareham, 18 from five, East Hampshire, eight from two, and Southampton, 26 from nine. Reported cases have fallen on the Isle of Wight, dropping to four from 32.

Parents are urged to seek medical advice if their child’s symptoms deteriorate.