Hastings Prince Edward Public Health has asked HPEDSB to share the following information.
Similar to provincial trends, Hastings and Prince Edwards counties have recorded a higher-than-normal number of Invasive group A streptococcal disease (iGAS) cases. This includes a significant increase in iGAS reported in children under 18 years of age.
-
Although the risk of acquiring iGAS is low, it is important for parents to be aware of the signs and symptoms and how they can protect their children.
- Group A Streptococcus is a common bacteria that can cause a variety of infections ranging from no illness to severe illness. The most frequent conditions include: sore throat (commonly referred to as strep throat), ear infections, skin infections and scarlet fever.
- In rare cases, the same strep bacteria can cause a severe form of illness called invasive GAS (iGAS) disease. This happens when bacteria get into parts of the body where bacteria are not usually found such as the blood, muscle or the lungs.
The most severe forms of iGAS disease can cause very serious illness and may even lead to death.
Precautions against iGAS include the following:
- Using good personal hygiene, especially frequent and thorough hand washing.
- Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or upper sleeve.
- Cleansing, disinfecting and bandaging wounds and cuts.
- Reporting any sudden or unusual signs of infection, sore throat and/or fever to your doctor.
Please refer to the fact sheet about iGAS for more information.
If you have any questions, please contact Hastings Price Edward Public Health at 613-966-5500 or www.hpePublicHealth.ca