AN INCREASING number of people are visiting phamacies across North Wales due to "incorrect" information about Strep A virus circulating on social media.

The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has said there is an increase in people requesting a test for a sore throat.

The North Wales health board has said this likely linked to "incorrect" information circulating in local Facebook community groups encouraging people to use the Sore Throat Test and Treat Service available at some pharmacies to test specifically for Scarlet Fever, a Strep A infection.

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A BCUHB spokesperson said: "People with symptoms of Scarlet Fever cannot use the Sore Throat Test and Treat service as this is for management of bacterial tonsilitis or viral sore throat only.

"Anyone with signs of Scarlet Fever (sore throat, fever, rash, swollen tongue) should instead, contact their GP or NHS 111 Wales.

"Anyone asking for the Sore Throat Test and Treat Service in a pharmacy who as symptoms indicating possible Scarlet Fever will be referred on to their GP or NHS 111 Wales by the pharmacist."

They added: "If you or your child has a sore throat and fever (but no rash/swollen tongue), you can find out which pharmacies are offering the Sore Throat Test and Treat service here. Please call the pharmacy before visiting to check the service is available before travelling."