Clinicians across Suffolk and north east Essex urge people to use the right service for their needs

Health leaders across Suffolk and north east Essex are urging people to use the right service for their condition to ensure those in urgent need are best supported.

They say winter traditionally sees an increase in coughs, colds and other respiratory illnesses.

In addition to these symptoms, the UK Health Security Agency said there has also been an increase in a bacteria infection this year, caused by the Group A Streptococcus bacteria, particularly among children which has led to a higher incidence of scarlet fever.

The agency said Group A Streptococcus bacteria can cause a range of other types of infection, such as skin infections (impetigo) and sore throat and in very rare occasions, Group A Streptococcus (GAS) can get into the bloodstream and cause an illness called invasive Group A Strep (iGAS).  The UKHSA added this can be very serious, particularly in older, younger and more vulnerable groups. 

Advice about what to do when you or someone you care for is ill can be found using NHS 111 online (111.nhs.uk) available 24-hours-a-day. Online access is usually quicker and just as good as calling on your phone – please use this first if you can.

There is no need to contact your GP if your child has no symptoms but has been in contact with another child/adult with Strep A infection. 

If your child has very minor symptoms (e.g. a runny nose) but seems otherwise well with no fever, there is no need to contact your GP. If your child has a fever, try giving them Calpol or paracetamol and reassess after 1-2 hours. 

However clinicians say, as a parent, you are an expert in your child. If you feel your child is seriously unwell, or you feel outside of your comfort zone you should trust your own judgement and contact NHS 111 or your GP. 

Contact NHS 111 or your GP if:

• your child is getting worse
• your child is feeding or eating much less than normal
• your child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more or shows other signs of dehydration
• your baby is under three months and has a temperature of 38°C, or is older than three months and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
• your baby feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
• your child is very tired or irritable.

Call 999 or go to A&E if:

• your child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs
• there are pauses when your child breathes
• your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
• your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake.

Dr Andrew Kelso Medical Director at NHS Suffolk and North East Essex, said: “It is quite normal for us to see an increase in childhood illness at this time of year – and much of this will pass with plenty of rest and drinking fluids.

“Good hand and respiratory hygiene are important for stopping the spread of many bugs. By teaching your child how to wash their hands properly with soap for 20 seconds, using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and keeping away from others when feeling unwell, they will be able to reduce the risk of picking up or spreading infections.

“Please visit 111 online if you need further guidance. NHS 111 online (www.111.nhs.uk) will help determine what the best course of action is. 

“NHS services are always busy at this time of year and waiting rooms have limited space. To avoid overcrowding, if you can, please limit the number of people attending with a patient, although we understand this is sometimes not possible. GP practices will be prioritising patients based on their symptoms, meaning that some patients may have to wait for some time before being seen. 

“GP practices may have to cancel or defer routine appointments at short notice to meet the needs of patients with respiratory symptoms.

“All of our health staff are working tirelessly so please be kind and courteous to them at this challenging time.”