Acute rheumatic fever is an illness caused by an autoimmune response to a bacterial group A streptococcal infection, which is also called a Strep A infection.
Rheumatic heart disease is damage to the valves in the heart that develops after acute rheumatic fever.
Diagnosis of both acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease require an assessment of symptoms and clinical testing. Treatment involves regular antibiotics and medical care.
There are several opportunities to prevent illness and slow disease progression: improving environmental conditions, treating Strep A infections, preventing recurrent acute rheumatic fever, and avoiding complications of rheumatic heart disease.
The Champions4Change motto is ‘inspiring, caring and sharing’. Inspiring others to take charge and make a difference, caring for others with ARF and RHD, and sharing ideas and stories, especially from those who have the experience of living with this disease.
RHDAustralia welcomes the launch of the RHD Endgame Strategy – a blueprint for eliminating rheumatic heart disease in Australia by 2031.... Read on
Terrence Guyula is an Aboriginal Health Practitioner who has worked in the remote Top End of the Northern Territory for over 32 years. In... Read on
The 2020 Australian guideline for prevention, diagnosis and management of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease (3rd edition)... Read on
