Group A streptococcus (GAS)
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) spreads through respiratory droplets and skin contact. It causes common illnesses like strep throat and impetigo, in severe case necrotizing fasciitis and toxic shock syndrome.
Invasive GAS (IGAS) occurs when the bacteria proliferate in a normally sterile body site, such as the blood, soft tissues or joints.
Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) can be a severe complication of IGAS, caused by toxins that are produced by GAS, which act on host cells or tissues.
Information for the public
Factsheet - What is Group A Strep | HSC Public Health Agency
Group A Streptococcus - GOV.UK
IGAS_Factsheet_01_23 final.pdf
Group A Streptococcus in children (including scarlet fever and invasive Group A Streptococcus)
Scarlet fever | HSC Public Health Agency
Scarlet fever: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment - GOV.UK
Parents and carers asked to be aware of the symptoms of scarlet fever Agency
Guidance for healthcare professionals
Guidelines on antimicrobial prescribing for acute sore throat are set out in the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance [NG84]: Sore throat (acute): antimicrobial prescribing.
Treatment
Scarlet fever and strep throat are treated with a course of antibiotics.