As we know talk of Strep A is all over the news currently, as some younger people have sadly died from this invasive infection. In this Blog we cover off some of the questions on Strep A such as what it is and where it comes from. We also have some tips on how to prevent the infection spreading.
In this blog we answer:
Strep A is a common type of bacterium. Strep A is also known as Group A Streptococcus (GAS) and is a bacterium that is commonly found on the skin and in the throat.
How do Strep A infections occur?
Strep A is more common in young children than in adults and often spreads by close contact with an infected person. These bacteria lives in the body without causing symptoms or making the individual feel unwell; but these bacteria can still be spread on to others. If you have a weakened immune system, open sores or wounds, or have a viral infection such as a cold or the flu; these can all make you more at risk of catching the Strep A infection.
How do you Stop Strep A from Spreading?
First and foremost, be on the lookout! Strep A is not a new bacterial and is recognised as a ‘notifiable disease’ by UK Health Security Agency who have advised that the laboratory notifications of Strep A so far this season are higher than expected. So it is still about and the things to look out for in children and adults are:
Flu-like symptoms with high temperature, swollen glands or aching body
Sore, dry throat (Tonsillitis)
A rash that feels like sandpaper (Scarlet Fever)
Wounds, scabs and sores
Pain and swelling
Severe muscle aches
Nausea and vomiting
Being on the lookout for germs and bacteria is fine but you can't see them so it is also best to keep your hands clean after touching surfaces; and wiping down surfaces with anti-bac spray or wet wipes that conform to BS EN16615 and EN1276.
As a lot of sprays on the market are just cleaners, when purchasing a surface spray or wet wipe it is always good to check the label to ensure that it passes these numbers or at least states that it kills 99.99% of bacteria.
Strep A is common in a lot of schools across the country at the moment and here are some practises to help ensure that Strep A doesn’t spread throughout your school:
Touchpoints in schools such as handles, desks, gym equipment, stationery, basins, sinks, toilets, hand dryers; hand towel and toilet roll dispensers, can all harbour bacteria from use. The best way to keep them clean and germ-free is to wipe the surface down at least 2 or 3 times a day to stop cross-contamination. This can be done easily, quickly and effectively by using a tub of or sanitising wipes that can be dispensed with ease to save you time.
Areas in office blocks also have a lot of touchpoints such as coffee machines, door handles, washrooms, canteens, desks, chairs, worktops, keyboards and phones. All these areas are best wiped down at least once a day with cleaning and sanitising wipes.
A simple way to ensure that all areas are sanitised is to make a checklist of the items that need sanitization and then you can simply tick the area off once it has been actioned so that everyone can see what has been done.
As well as a checklist it is always best to have a comprehensive cleaning schedule to ensure that all areas of the building are regularly cleaned and sanitised to ensure there is no scope for cross-contamination. Wet wipes, cleaning cloths, sanitating sprays and colour coded bin bags are great products to help stop cross-contamination.
Yes; Strep A is highly contagious and can spread easily by close contact with an infected person – via coughs, sneezes or contact with a wound. It is advised that anyone that has a Strep A infection should isolate and consult with a doctor for medication.
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