hand holding a thermometer

Isle of Wight sees spike in Scarlet Fever cases: Officials urge parents to watch for symptoms and seek medical advice

The Isle of Wight council’s Director of Public Health has said the Island is seeing unusually high number of ‘Group A streptococcus’ (GAS) and seasonal viral infections in circulation.

Simon Bryant issued an appeal urging parents to be vigilant, adding that the numbers are much higher compared to previous years, both nationally and locally.

Cases at Ryde school
Parents at one Isle of Wight school have been written to this afternoon advising that there are a number of cases of Scarlet Fever in the school and for parents to be vigilant in spotting any signs of illness.

A spokesperson for Ryde School told News OnTheWight,

“Ryde School has written to parents today to inform them of confirmation of a small number of pupils at home with a diagnosis of Scarlet Fever.

“The letter has highlighted the symptoms and signs of Scarlet Fever to parents and the correct course of action if these are seen in their children.

“This coincided with the government raising awareness and a request to all schools to communicate to parents a list of symptoms to look out for and guidance on seeking medical advice.

“Parents have been asked to keep their children at home if symptoms are noted and to follow the government advice which is detailed in the letter.”

If you know of other schools informing parents of cases, let us know.


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