Sark Surgery News

Group A Streptococcus

For updated information, please click here for the blog section.

Group A Streptococcus Over the weekend more people have been tested for Group A Streptococcus. We are awaiting results from the tests before we can confirm if this infection has spread further. No-one who is suspected to have become ill due to this has needed to be admitted to hospital. All those affected are receiving treatment and are recovering well.

You can reduce the risk of infection by washing your hands regularly and avoiding contact with others if you develop fever, rash or a sore throat. Please follow the links in the paragraph below for more information.

Group A Streptococcus There have been two cases of confirmed Streptococcal disease affecting children on Sark in the last few weeks. This is a type of bacteria which is often found on the skin and in the throats of people who are not ill. The bacteria can cause infection in some people which is usually mild and gives symptoms such as sore throat ('strep throat') and itchy red skin rash with yellow crusting (impetigo). Occasionally however the infection can be more severe.

At the moment we are investigating whether this infection is now spreading on Sark and we are waiting for the results of further tests. Please see the following documents for more information here(pdf) and here(pdf).

If you are concerned that you or your child are developing the symptoms described in the leaflets, please make an appointment to see the doctor in the usual way. If necessary tests can be done and treatment started. At present there is no plan to test or treat people who have come into contact with those affected and do not live at the same address unless they become ill themselves. We are following guidance from Guernsey's Microbiology and Public Health departments.

Defibrillator Updated A new defibrillator has been purchased using donations from Sark Yacht Club, The Candles on the Creux committee, The Dog Training Group and the Sark Driving Club. Many thanks for all the hard work fundraising and for the generosity of all those who contributed.