Group A Streptococcus
This group A Streptococcus collection also contains information on:
Infection and symptoms
Group A Streptococcus (also known as GAS, group A strep, strep A, and Streptococcus pyogenes) is a bacterium which can colonise the throat, skin and anogenital tract. It is spread by close contact between individuals, through respiratory particles and direct skin contact. It can also be transmitted environmentally, for example through contact with contaminated objects, such as towels or bedding, or ingestion of food prepared by someone with the infection.
GAS causes a diverse range of skin, soft tissue and respiratory tract infections, including:
- tonsillitis
- pharyngitis
- scarlet fever
- impetigo
- erysipelas
- cellulitis
- pneumonia
Occasionally these infections can be extremely severe.
Scarlet fever is characterised by a rash, which usually accompanies a sore throat. Cases may also have a red and swollen tongue and flushed cheeks.
Invasive GAS (iGAS) is another infection caused by GAS, that is much rarer than scarlet fever. It occurs when GAS is isolated from a normally sterile body site, such as the blood.
Both iGAS and scarlet fever are notifiable diseases: health professionals must inform local health protection teams (HPTs) of suspected cases.
Information for the public
Members of the public can seek advice about group A streptococcal infections from the following resources:
The latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) updates for the public are also available on GOV.UK:
