Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a bacteria that can cause common illnesses, including tonsillitis, impetigo and scarlet fever. These infections are usually mild and clear up after a course of antibiotics, but in some cases can lead to a more serious infection known as Invasive Group A streptococcus (iGAS).
Whilst iGAS infections are still uncommon, there has been an increase in cases this year, particularly in children under 10, including a small number of deaths.