The Community of Madrid has identified 16 cases of invasive streptococcus A disease in minors since October 19, including two patients who have died, and is currently studying the frequency of these cases following a warning issued by the United Kingdom. infections are higher than usual.

In a statement released this Wednesday, the Madrid Ministry of Health explains that the remaining 14 diagnosed cases, all between the ages of 1 and 12, are hospitalized with appropriate antibiotic treatment and are progressing favorably.

Streptococcus A is a common bacterium that usually causes no complications; It usually causes a wide range of infections such as pharyngitis or mild irritations that are treated with antibiotics, although it can lead to more serious infections such as pneumonia or scarlet fever.

On December 2, UK health authorities issued a notice following an increase in streptococcal A infections in minors, according to the Ministry of Health.

The data recorded by the UK health authorities has been encrypted since September, so there have been 9 juvenile deaths from this month to date, the latest this week being a 5-year-old girl, as well as over 850 cases.

For its part, Madrid’s General Directorate of Public Health is examining a series of cases from the years leading up to the coronavirus pandemic to determine if there is a change in severity.

The Ministry of Health, through its General Directorate of Public Health, assured that “it is in contact with the autonomous communities and cities to collect information on possible cases identified in recent weeks and to conduct an analysis of the situation.” “. Thus, health systems are “in a situation of active surveillance.”

This pathology is spread by airborne droplets, when infectious respiratory secretions or exudates from skin lesions get on the mucous membranes of the mouth or nose.

The infection is transmitted within 24 hours after antibiotic treatment is completed.

The Madrid Ministry of Health recommends following the doctor’s instructions for treatment and in the presence of high fever and worsening respiratory symptoms and decay, go to the emergency department of the hospital.

In case of acute respiratory infection, it is necessary to strengthen respiratory hygiene with the use of a mask and hand washing. If a child cannot wear a mask due to their age, it is recommended that their parents or guardians use one.