Increase in scarlet fever

We are writing to inform of a recent [national/local] increase in notifications of scarlet fever to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), above seasonal expected levels.

We would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the signs, symptoms and the actions to be taken if you think that you or your child might have scarlet fever.

Signs and symptoms of scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is a common childhood infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, or group A Streptococcus (GAS). It is not usually serious, but should be treated with antibiotics to reduce the risk of complications (such as pneumonia) and spread to others. The early symptoms of scarlet fever include sore throat, headache, fever, nausea and vomiting. After 12 to 48 hours, the characteristic red, pinhead rash develops, typically first appearing on the chest and stomach, then rapidly spreading to other parts of the body, and giving the skin a sandpaper-like texture. The scarlet rash may be harder to spot on darker skin, although the 'sandpaper' feel should be present. Patients typically have flushed cheeks and be pale around the mouth. This may be accompanied by a bright red red ‘strawberry’ tongue.

If you think you, or your child, might have scarlet fever:

• contact your GP or NHS 111 as soon as possible
• make sure that you or your child take(s) the full course of any antibiotics prescribed. Although you or your child will feel better soon after starting the course of antibiotics, you must complete the course to ensure that you do not carry the bacteria in your throat after you have recovered
• stay at home, away from nursery, school or work for at least 24 hours after starting the antibiotic treatment, to avoid spreading the infection

You can help stop the spread of infection through frequent hand washing and by not sharing eating utensils, clothes, bedding and towels. All contaminated tissues  should be disposed of immediately.

Invasive Group A Strep (iGAS)

The same bacteria which cause scarlet fever can also cause a range of other types of infection such as skin infections (impetigo) and sore throat. In very rare cases, the bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause an illness called invasive group A strep (iGAS). Whilst still very uncommon, there has been an increase in iGAS cases this year, particularly in children under 10 years old. It is very rare for children with scarlet fever to develop iGAS infection.

As a parent, you should trust your own judgement.  Contact NHS 111 or your GP if:

• your child is getting worse
• your child is feeding or eating much less than normal
• your child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more or shows other signs of dehydration
• your baby is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38C, or is older than 3 months and has a temperature of 39C or higher
• your baby feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
• your child is very tired or irritable

Call 999 or go to A&E if:

• your child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs
• there are pauses when your child breathes
• your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
• your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake

Stop the spread

During periods of high incidence of scarlet fever, there may also be an increase in outbreaks in schools, nurseries and other childcare settings. Children and adults with suspected scarlet fever should stay off nursery / school / work until 24 hours after the start of appropriate antibiotic treatment. Good hygiene practice such as hand washing remains the most important step in preventing and controlling spread of infection.

 

Yours sincerely,

 

Mr G Bartrum

Headteacher

Rowhill School

 

Resources

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scarlet-fever/

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/scarlet-fever-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-protection-in-schools-and-other-childcare-facilities/managing-specific-infectious-diseases-a-to-z

https://www.e-bug.eu/

CHRISTMAS LUNCH
14/12/22

ROAST TURKEY
PIGS IN BLANKETS
SAGE AND ONION STUFFING
STUFFED RED PEPPERS
ROAST POTATOES
BRUSSEL SPROUTS
CARROTS
ROAST PARSNIPS
GRAVY
CHRISTMAS PUDDING WITH CUSTARD OR CREAM
MINCE PIES WITH CUSTARD OR CREAM
STRAWBERRY TRIFLE
CHOCOLATE VIENETTA ICE CREAM

Consultation Evening –Transition & Vocational- Tuesday 18 October 2022 3.30pm-5.30pm
Our Autumn Term Consultation Evening, during which the provision planning for your child will be reviewed, is being held on Tuesday 18 October 2022 3.30pm-5.30pm.

 

A slip letter has been sent home for completion. Please complete and return to school as soon as possible.

Do you know a young person who is passionate to make a difference?  Or maybe someone who would really benefit from getting involved & making new friends?

We are currently recruiting candidates for the elections. Any young person aged 11 – 18 years who lives or goes to school or college in Kent can sign up to get involved. Young people will have 2 options to select from, they can sign up as either a District Candidate or a Community Seat Candidate.

District Candidate – these are the elections held within schools & youth organisations via paper ballot and online election. 4 Member and 4 Deputy members will be elected to represent each of Kent’s 12 Districts. These are the main elections and when you sign up to hold the elections you will be sent the ballot papers for the relevant district.

Community Seat Candidate – these elections are held within youth groups specific to the community group and via an online vote. Young people should belong to the community they would like to represent. Community Seats include disabled young people, LGBT+ young people, young carers, young people in care, BME young people to name just a few. 1 Member and 1 Deputy Member will be elected to each Community Seat.

Young people are provided with lots of training and support within their role as a KYCC member so no experience is needed, just a willingness to come along and get involved! Candidate registration closes at midday on Tuesday 18^th October. Registration forms can be found at www.kent.gov.uk/kyccelections

KYCC Members also have the opportunity to represent Kent nationally through UK Youth Parliament, each year we elect 7 Members of Youth Parliament who have the opportunity to take part in a range of national conferences including debating in the House of Commons!

To celebrate your child’s achievements this year, we would like to invite you to our prize giving
afternoon.
This will take place at Rowhill School on Friday 16th September at 1.15 pm and will finish
approximately at 2.45 pm