Don’t let a sore throat lead to a hurting heart

...“If your child has a sore throat, please have it checked by a nurse or doctor. A sore throat if left untreated can sometimes lead to rheumatic fever”.

Rheumatic fever is a serious but preventable illness. It mainly affects Māori and Pacific children and young people (aged 4 to 19 years). Rheumatic fever starts with a sore throat that is known as ‘strep throat’. It is a serious illness that can lead to rheumatic heart disease which can be life threatening and cause ongoing health difficulties.

Te Kupenga Hauora – Ahuriri is part of a collective of Hawke’s Bay providers who are meeting regularly ahead of the upcoming winter season to increase awareness around Rheumatic Fever prevention. There is a lot of activity that will be happening throughout the region. “Every time your child has a sore throat it could be serious. Don’t ignore it, take them to a doctor or nurse straight away to get it checked. Also if your child is prescribed antibiotics it is important that they take the full ten-day course, even if they feel better, to stop the sore throat turning into rheumatic fever.

If you have any concerns about your child’s sore throat call Healthline (0800 611 116) or call us here at Te Kupenga Hauora – Ahuriri on 835 1840 and one of our staff will be happy to meet and talk with you and your whānau.