A TELEVISION doctor from Bradford was “inundated” with young children presenting with fevers, rashes and sore throats yesterday amid concerns over rising cases of Strep A.

The invasive version of the viral infection – known as iGAS – has been linked to at least 15 deaths in the UK now and is causing concerns for parents and schools.

St Pauls CE Primary School, in St Paul’s Avenue, Wibsey revealed in a letter sent out on Tuesday that it had “another” case of Strep A – also known as scarlet fever or “GAS” – and parents have been urged to keep an eye out for the symptoms.

This can include a sore throat, headache, fever, or a fine, pinkish or red body rash.

Dr Amir Khan, who is a regular contributor to daytime TV shows including Good Morning Britain, said he saw more than 20 young children with sort throats and fevers in his role as a GP at The Ridge Medical Practice.

He added: “We’re seeing a lot more children with fevers, rashes, sore throats.

“I was inundated yesterday but that’s okay, we understand why parents are worried.

“We will do our best to see as many children and manage as many children as we can.”

Early treatment of Strep A with oral antibiotics is important to reduce the risk of complications, such as pneumonia or a bloodstream infection.

Concerns were raised yesterday when the National Pharmacy Association said there were “blips” in the supply chain of liquid penicillin, which is often given to children.

But the Government was quick to reassure people that there was no shortage of antibiotics, as Health Secretary Steve Barclay said checks within the Department of Health had not revealed an issue with supply of the medicines.

A chemist in Bradford, who wished to remain anonymous, said he has had no problems with stock this week but fears it might change further down the line if people begin to panic.

He added: “A bit like the pasta situation in Covid times, toilet rolls, people might bulk buy, demand outstripping supply, but I’ve had no problems.”

Strep A cases have emerged a lot earlier this year and have coincided with the season for colds and flu, according to the chemist.

He said this means it can be hard for doctors to distinguish between the illnesses and might mean they prescribe antibiotics in fear of complications with Strep A.

He added: “An increase in prescribing means an increase in dispensing, which means an increase in ordering.”

Dr Amir said the UKHSA (UK Health Security Agency) had lowered the threshold for prescribing antibiotics and he revealed he had received an email about a penicillin shortage.

But he moved to allay fears of shortages by reminding people there are alternative antibiotics, such as amoxicillin.

He said: “It’s not like there’s just penicillin or nothing, there are other antibiotics should there be supply issues.”