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May 14, 2024
 The Lake County Health Department has noted an uptick in reports concerning group A Streptococcal (GAS) infections, commonly known as strep throat or scarlet fever. These infections stem from the bacterium group A Streptococcus, primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets via coughing, sneezing, or close contact, and occasionally through contaminated surfaces or improperly handled foods.
Symptoms, typically manifesting 2 to 5 days post-exposure, include:
- Fever
- Sore throat and painful swallowing
- Swollen glands
- Redness in throat and tonsils
- White patches or pus on tonsils
- Red spots on the roof of the mouth
- Strawberry tongue
- Sandpaper-like rash (scarlet fever)
- Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Headache
It's important to note that cough, runny nose, hoarse voice, and pink eye are generally not associated with strep throat.
Calls to Action
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Suspect: Maintain a high level of suspicion for GAS infections (strep throat or scarlet fever) in patients presenting with relevant symptoms, especially in high-risk demographics such as children aged 5 to 15 years old and those in group settings.
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Test: Routinely perform rapid strep tests for patients exhibiting symptoms indicative of strep throat or scarlet fever to promptly confirm diagnosis. Additionally, obtain throat cultures for confirmation in cases where rapid test results are inconclusive or unavailable.
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Treat: Initiate prompt antibiotic therapy for confirmed GAS infections to mitigate the risk of complications and prevent further spread of the bacteria. Individuals should not return to work or school until 24 hours after antibiotics are initiated.
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Prevent Spread: Educate patients and caregivers on proper hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette (covering mouth/nose when coughing or sneezing with tissue or inside of elbow), and regular disinfection of shared surfaces and utensils. Encourage individuals with symptoms to stay home from work, school, or daycare until fever-free for 24 hours without medication.
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Report and Collaborate: Report outbreaks or healthcare-associated and long-term care-associated GAS infections to the Lake County Health Department, by calling 847-377-8130, selecting option 1.
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