in-cyprus 9 February 2024
The Ministry of Health has released a public advisory on Group A Streptococcus, outlining the necessary precautions to mitigate its spread.
Predominantly affecting children between 5-15 years, this bacterium is the leading cause of bacterial pharyngotonsillitis, though it can also impact adults and younger children.
Transmission occurs through close contact, especially during the acute phase of infection, and can spread through coughing, sneezing, or open wounds.
Symptoms typically develop within 2-5 days of exposure.
While most infections, such as tonsillitis, scarlet fever, and impetigo, are generally non-severe and respond well to treatment, there is a rare risk of severe invasive infections like sepsis and meningitis.
Parents are advised to be vigilant for symptoms including sore throat, fever, headaches, abdominal pain, vomiting, and a distinctive red rash or spots on the tongue, indicative of scarlet fever.
Immediate medical consultation is recommended if a child’s symptoms persist or worsen if they exhibit signs of dehydration, or if they have a high fever, especially in infants under 3 months.
To prevent the spread of this bacterium, health authorities emphasise the importance of regular hand washing, maintaining personal hygiene, avoiding crowded indoor spaces, keeping symptomatic children at home, not sharing household items, and ensuring proper ventilation in living spaces.
