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.
Originally published on the Telethon Kids Institute website. Across Australia, more than 5,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people... Read on
Liana’s story begins nine years ago. It starts with a sore ankle, a fever, a trip to the emergency room and clinic and finally a... Read on
In early November 2021, Apunipima partnered with the Napranum PCYC for a Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) movie night to launch a series of... Read on
