With the sad news of the death of a number of young children from exposure to Strep A, we need to address this common type of bacteria and highlight the steps we can take to reduce the spread of serious infection.
For starters, we need to know what Strep A actually is.
According to NHS Inform, Group A Streptococcus (GAS), also known as Strep A, are bacteria commonly found on the skin or in the throat. Under some circumstances these bacteria can cause diseases ranging in severity from mild to life-threatening.
GAS infection commonly presents as a mild sore throat (‘strep throat’) and skin/soft tissue infections such as:
- tonsillitis
- sore throat
- scarlet fever
- impetigo
- erysipelas (a type of cellulitis)
- cellulitis
- pneumonia
So, we’re often exposed to this type of bacteria and it’s generally not a problem – but sometimes it can be more serious.
Prevention is better than cure. Always.
Our antibacterial wipes are tested to EN16615 which is the recognised wipe test to prove efficacy of wipes against bacteria. They’re also tested to EN13727 which is a standard test for liquids to prove broad spectrum efficacy against bacteria, including gram-positive bacteria similar to Strep A.
Uniwipe antibacterial wipes are durable wipes saturated with an antibacterial and virucidal solution. When the wipes come in contact with a surface, the active solution kills bacteria and viruses, including tough germs like COVID-19 and influenza.
While our wipes are tough on bacteria, they’re also gentle on your skin and surfaces throughout your home. Not only can you clean surfaces such as countertops, doorknobs, and other areas that are prone to germs, but you can use our specially-formulated Hand & Surface wipes to clean your hands. This all reduces the spread of bacteria and cuts down the risk of infection.
In a previous blog post, we spoke about the One Wipe, One Surface method and the potential dangers of overuse leading to viral transmission. You’ll understand it’s a subject very close to our hearts and frankly, it warrants overstating, time and time again:
- Take your wipe.
- Wipe a single surface down.
- Bin the wipe.
Simple, effective and safe.
The technical stuff
At Uniwipe, our years of experience in creating wipes for the NHS and medical sector means we have some of the highest testing available for wipes, so you can rest assured you’re using the very best in germ killing technology.
Uniwipe Clinical Midi-Wipes are tested to: EN16615, EN1276, EN13727, EN13697, EN13624, EN14561, EN14476, EN16777 & EN14562.
Top tip: make sure you are treating your hands/surface for the full recommended contact time for maximum effect.
Efficacy Data:
Test Organism | EN standard and kill time |
Bacteria | |
Pseudomonas aeruginosa | EN 16615, EN 1276, EN 13697 – 60s, EN 13727 – 30s, EN 14561 |
Staphylococcus aureus | EN 16615, EN 1276, EN 13697 – 60s, EN 13727 – 30s, EN 14561 |
Enterococcus hirae | EN 16615, EN 1276, EN 13697 – 60s, EN 13727 – 30s, EN 14561 |
Escherichia coli | EN 1276, EN 13697 – 60s |
Yeast | |
Candida albicans | EN 16615 – 60s, EN 13624 – 30s , EN 14562 |
Viruses | |
Vaccinia virus | EN 14476, EN 16777 – 60s, EN 14476 – 30s |
Norovirus | EN 14476 – 2 mins |
What happens if I need urgent help?
Whilst every care may be taken to prevent infection, NHS guidance is to phone 999 or go to A&E if:
- you or your child is having difficulty breathing (you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs)
- there are pauses when you or your child breathes
- you or your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
- you or your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake
For full NHS guidance, visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/strep-a/
What products should I use?
Try our Clinical Midi-Wipes, trusted by the NHS and other medical institutions because of its superior testing and performance.
Or our Washroom Midi-Wipes are tested to EN1276, EN13727 & EN14476, and are lightly fragranced with a fresh citrus scent.
Uniwipe Bio Clinical wipes use a fabric that is made from 100% biodegradable plant-based fibres, which also retains extremely high effectiveness against bacteria and viruses.