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

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

In a statement to MailOnline, Dr Ardiana Gjini, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control for Public Health Wales, said: ‘Public Health Wales is working with Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and the Vale of Glamorgan Council following the death of a pupil at Victoria Primary School, Penarth. 

‘We offer our deepest condolences to the family, friends and all those affected.

‘Public Health Wales cannot comment on individual cases, and we ask that the privacy of the family is respected.

‘Public Health Wales is working closely with the school to raise awareness as appropriate about invasive Group A Streptococcal disease (iGAS).

‘Although it is unlikely that their child will be affected by iGAS infection, relevant individuals are being advised that they should familiarise themselves with the symptoms and what to do if these symptoms occur.

‘Contracting iGAS disease from a contact is very rare. Most people who come into contact with Group A Streptococcal Infection remain well and symptom-free, or develop mild throat or skin infections.’ 

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, 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 Victoria Primary School and Vale of Glamorgan council for comment on the latest death.