Streptococcus A (strep A)
GAS infection commonly presents as a mild sore throat (‘strep throat’) and skin/soft tissue infections such as impetigo and cellulitis.
Phone 999 or go to A&E if:
you or your child is having difficulty breathing (you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs)
there are pauses when you or your child breathes
you or your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
you or your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake
Contact your GP if you or your child:
is getting worse
is feeding or eating much less than normal
is showing signs of dehydration, like sunken eyes, drowsiness
has not passed urine for 12 hours
is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38°C
is older than 3 months and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
is very tired or irritable
If your GP is closed, phone the 111 service.
If you feel that you or your child is seriously unwell, trust your own judgement and seek medical assistance.
Strep A tests are not available through the NHS in Scotland for self-testing at home. Should you or your child need to be tested for Strep A, your GP or other healthcare professional will advise you.
Phone 999 or go to A&E if:
you or your child is having difficulty breathing (you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs)
there are pauses when you or your child breathes
you or your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
you or your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake
Contact your GP if you or your child:
is getting worse
is feeding or eating much less than normal
is showing signs of dehydration, like sunken eyes, drowsiness
has not passed urine for 12 hours
is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38°C
is older than 3 months and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
is very tired or irritable
If your GP is closed, phone the 111 service.
If you feel that you or your child is seriously unwell, trust your own judgement and seek medical assistance.
Strep A tests are not available through the NHS in Scotland for self-testing at home. Should you or your child need to be tested for Strep A, your GP or other healthcare professional will advise you.