Several pediatric cases ofinvasive Group A Streptococcal infections, in larger than usual numbers, have been reported in France over the past 15 days. These cases led to the hospitalization in intensive care of at least 8 children without identified risk factors, of which 2 died. Three adult cases were also reported of which 1 died.
In addition, the United Kingdom has also reported an upsurge in cases in recent days with the occurrence of at least 6 deaths in children.
In most cases, streptococci are responsible for mild illnesses such as anginaimpetigo or even scarlet fever.
Also, the Ministry of Health has asked health professionals to carry out a Rapid Diagnostic Orientation Test (TROD) Streptococcus A before angina and a throat swab before a clinical picture of scarlet fever, in the event of a negative TROD. (To see the DGS-Urgent)
TROD and angina: why do a test?
To diagnose the origin of a angina, and determine whether it is viral or bacterial, doctors have a rapid diagnostic orientation test for angina (TROD angina). In particular, it allows you to know if the sore throat you are suffering from is bacterial angina due to streptococcus of group A, which requires treatment with antibiotics.
The purpose of this test? Limit the prescription of antibiotics at a time when, according to the Ministry of Health, “about 10% of antibiotic prescriptions correspond to a treatment for angina while 80% of anginas are due to viruses, therefore do not require antibiotics” underlines the Ministry of Health in a press release. Rapid angina tests therefore make it possible to take antibiotics only when necessary and to preserve their effectiveness by avoiding bacterial resistance to antibiotics”.
TROD and angina: where to do the test? Is it reimbursed?
Since 1er July 2021, these rapid angina tests can be performed in community pharmacies and they are furthermore covered by health insurance, therefore free.
The TROP test can also be performed by the general practitioner during the consultation.
How is a TROD?
How’s it going ? The Rapid Diagnostic Orientation Test (TROD) takes the form of a sample taken from the patient’s throat using a long cotton swab. The sample is analyzed using liquid reagents – the results can be read after 5-10 minutes. According to the color that this strip takes, the doctor knows whether or not the angina is due to a group A streptococcus.
- During the consultation, the general practitioner, the pediatrician or the ENT can directly perform the rapid angina test on the patient.
- In pharmacies, the pharmacist can carry out this test when the symptoms presented by the patient justify it, in the absence of prior medical consultation, in children aged 10 and over, and in adults. In the event of a positive test result, the pharmacist will refer the patient to his doctor. If the test reveals bacterial angina, the pharmacist will refer the patient to a doctor to prescribe antibiotics.
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