A fourth primary school-aged child has died after contracting a Strep A bacterial infection, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed. The latest victim was a pupil at St John’s School in Ealing, west London. This follows the deaths of three other children in England and Wales over the past month.
The UKHSA reported a slight increase in Strep A cases, which can cause scarlet fever, though serious complications remain rare. Dr Yimmy Chow, a health protection consultant at the UKHSA, expressed condolences and said precautionary advice had been given to the school community to prevent further cases.
Among the recent fatalities was Muhammad Ibrahim Ali, aged four, from Buckinghamshire, who died on 14 November. Hanna Roap, seven, from Penarth, Wales, died within 24 hours of falling ill. A six-year-old girl from Ashford Church of England Primary School in Surrey also died on 22 November following an outbreak.
Group A streptococcus bacteria can cause mild illnesses such as strep throat and scarlet fever, but in rare cases can lead to invasive disease (iGAS). The NHS advises that scarlet fever symptoms include flu-like signs, a rash, and a “strawberry tongue.” Health officials urge anyone with severe symptoms to seek medical help immediately.
