The family of a five-year-old boy who died from an invasive form of strep A have revealed they sought medical help three times before he was admitted to hospital. Jax Albert Jefferys, from Waterlooville, Hampshire, died on 1 December after being told he had influenza A.
In a statement, Jax's family said they sought medical advice on three occasions over four days and were told he was suffering from influenza A. They followed the recommended course of action, administering paracetamol-based medication. However, on the fourth day, his condition deteriorated rapidly, and they rushed him to hospital, where he later died.
"Only after his death was it confirmed that the cause was [strep A]," the family said. They expressed gratitude to hospital staff who tried to save Jax and asked for privacy.
UK Health Security Agency figures show 15 children have died from invasive strep A since September. The infection typically causes sore throat, scarlet fever, or skin rash but can, in rare cases, enter the bloodstream and cause serious illness.
