Second primary school pupil dies from same Strep A infection that killed six-year-old child a week ago

• Death occurred at primary school in Penarth, Wales earlier this week
• Comes just week after similar death reported in England last Friday
• ‘Unlikely that other pupils will be affected’, school and council say

A primary school pupil in Wales has died from Strep A, following the death of a six-year-old from the same infection in England last week.

The death of the Victoria Primary School pupil in Penarth was confirmed today by the school as having happened earlier this week, as well as Vale of Glamorgan Council, the Mirror reported.

‘Earlier this week, it was confirmed that a pupil from Victoria Primary School had tragically passed away after contracting Strep A,’ according to a joint statement published by the Mirror.

‘Both the school and council would like to pass on their heartfelt condolences to the family at this incredibly difficult time.

Victoria Primary School in Penarth, Wales, where a primary school pupil died from a Strep A infection earlier this week

Ashford Church of England Primary School in England, where a death was reported of a six-year-old pupil from Strep A last week

‘Support is being provided to staff and pupils by the council’s team of educational psychologists and information from Public Health Wales has been circulated to parents where appropriate.

‘It is unlikely that other pupils will be affected by the illness and severe symptoms are extremely rare’.

What is Strep A and how can you spot it? 

Strep A is a Group A streptococcal (iGAS) infection, which affects the throat and skin

Most cases cause only mild illness, but some can be life-threatening 

The infection can lead to Scarlet Fever, which was rife in the Victorian Era

Symptoms include a rash on the throat, tongue and skin, and vomiting and diarrhoea

The illness is treatable with antibiotics 

Those with the above symptoms should call 111 immediately 

Source: UKHSA  

Last week, calls for a full investigation were made after a bacteria outbreak at an Ashford school led to the death of a six-year-old died, and another child being taken to hospital.

The year one pupil died after they contracted the bacterial infection Group A streptococcal, also known as Strep A, at Ashford Church of England Primary School.

A school email to parents confirmed a second child had contracted Strep A, an infection which causes scarlet fever, but was showing ‘positive signs’.

A third child from the same area of Ashford was also said to be suffering from scarlet fever.

Despite the serious cases of Strep A at the school, photos taken from the scene last week showed people seen working on hedges inside the school.

Both infected pupils went to the same Surrey primary school where the outbreak occurred, and people are now seeking answers as to why this happened.

Joanne Sexton, who represents the Ashford division at Surrey County Council, said a full investigation needed to take place.

It’s a shock more than anything and it’s very sad news. Goodness knows how the family is feeling. My heart just goes out to them,’ she said.

Surrey County Council released a statement last week with the UK Health Security Agency which confirmed the situation was being monitored at the school. 

MailOnline has contacted Public Health Wales, Victoria Primary School, and Vale of Glamorgan council for comment on the latest death.

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