Scarlet fever cases are higher than average in the UK, reports the UK Health Security Agency.

Between November 14-20 there were 851 cases reported in the UK, compared to an average of 186 for the preceding years.

Newly released figures appear to show an increase in suspected cases in Worcestershire.

Scarlet fever is “usually a mild illness, but it is highly infectious”, according to the UKHSA. It’s caused by the bacteria group A streptococci, and in very rare occasions, this bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause invasive Group A Strep.

Occurring most often in the winter and spring, symptoms include a rash, a sore throat, flushed cheeks and swollen tongue.

READ MORE: Downing Street urges parents to be on the lookout as Strep A infections rise

Data released by the UKHSA has revealed how many cases of scarlet fever have been reported in Worcestershire.

In the last month, from November 7 to December 4, there has been a total of 23 cases.

Nine of these cases came in the last week.

READ MORE: Antibiotics ‘can be given to groups of children during Strep A outbreaks’

Every suspected scarlet fever case in Worcestershire 

Week ending December 4

Total number of cases - 9

Bromsgrove - 8

Wychavon - 1

Week ending November 27

Total number of cases - 6

Bromsgrove - 1

Malvern Hills - 2 

Wychavon - 1

Wyre Forest - 2

Week ending November 20

Total number of cases - 3

Bromsgrove - 1

Worcester - 1

Wychavon - 1

Week ending November 13

Total number of cases - 5

Bromsgrove - 1

Malvern - 2 

Wyre Forest - 2

 

*CLARIFICATION*

The data, released by the UKHSA, shows the number of statutory notifications for scarlet fever.

Statutory notifications include suspected cases provided by medical practitioners (such as GPs) rather than cases which have been confirmed through medical testing.