PARENTS in Warrington are being warned to look out for symptoms of scarlet fever following a rise in cases in the town.

Warrington Borough Council’s public health team has issued advice following a warning from the UK Health Security Agency that the north west has the highest infection rate in England.

A total of 914 cases of scarlet fever were reported between September and March in the region, with cases in Warrington currently above pre-Covid pandemic levels.

Scarlet fever is caused by a bacteria called Group A Streptococcus, and it is spread by coughing and sneezing.

While it is usually a mild illness, it is highly infectious and could become serious, with other rare symptoms including septicaemia – an infection in the blood which can potentially be fatal.

Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, the council’s cabinet member for public health and wellbeing, says the local authority is working with schools to reduce the transmission of the disease.

She said: “In line with other areas across the north west and other parts of country, we have seen a rise in the number of cases of some infectious diseases.

“This is since the removal of Covid-19 restrictions and the move closer to pre-pandemic levels of social mixing.

“While there could be a variety of factors driving this, our reduced exposure to bacteria and viruses during the pandemic may mean that we are experiencing an immunity deficit to some illnesses, leading to a higher susceptibility of infection.

“Although incidents of scarlet fever are relatively low, this includes a higher incidence of reported cases than pre-pandemic levels in Warrington.

“Information and advice has been shared with schools and parents on symptoms, prevention and reducing the risk of transmission of scarlet fever.

“We are working closely with our local NHS healthcare services and partners to monitor patterns of infection and develop appropriate interventions.”

Other rare symptoms can arise when scarlet fever circulates at the same time as other skin infections such as chickenpox in a school or nursery, as is currently the case.

Symptoms of scarlet fever include a sore throat, headache, fever and a body rash with a sandpapery feel.

If signs of scarlet fever are suspected, it is important to contact your local GP or NHS 111.

Early treatment of scarlet fever with antibiotics is important, as it helps reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia and the spread of the infection to others.

Children or adults diagnosed with scarlet fever are advised to stay at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection to others.

For further information on scarlet fever, visit nhs.uk/conditions/scarlet-fever/