For long periods of time, sore throats in children indicated a mild infection that might sometimes be treated even without the need for antibiotics. But five deaths of children in the US state of Illinois began to raise doctors’ fears of a more serious disease.
network says ABC The news reports said the children had a disease called “strep throat,” which is caused by streptococcus bacteria.
Severe complications from streptococcus bacteria occur when, in rare cases, the bacteria migrate to other parts of the body in large numbers.
Strep throat is a bacterial infection that can make the affected person feel sore and irritated in the throat area, but strep throat bacteria represent only a small part of the causes of sore throats, according to the website. Mayo Clinic.
If not treated, it can cause complications, such as kidney infection or rheumatic fever.
Illinois health officials have issued a warning regarding a rise in cases of serious sore throats, as at least five child deaths have been reported so far in the state.
The network quoted Dr. Michael Cappello, Vice President of Advocate Children’s Hospital, as saying that the bacteria are present in the infected “in parts of the body where they were not usually present,” adding that the bacteria were found in “the bloodstream, the lungs, or even in the joints.”
The reason behind the sharp rise in children’s cases is still not clear, according to the network, but simultaneous infections with bacteria and other viruses at the same time can weaken the immune system to the point where bacteria spread without resistance.
Doctors urge parents of children to contact health providers when their children develop severe symptoms, such as scarlet fever.
Doctors recommend covering the mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, washing hands frequently with soap and water, and making sure that everyone in the house is up to date with influenza, corona and smallpox vaccines.
