Messages of support for a "brave" mum have come pouring in after she watched doctors desperately try to save her baby daughter.
Karen Aldred previously shared her story in the hopes of raising awareness to other families. At nine-months old, daughter Megan Barber came down with a cold around Christmas time in 1998.
With a "stuffy nose" and chills, the nine-month-old did not get any better and after several trips to the doctor, was rushed to hospital when her lips turned blue. Young Megan was put on a ventilator, but, despite best efforts, died on January 4 from Strep A which caused blood poisoning.
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Bravely speaking about how she watched doctors try to save her first-born daughter, Karen said it was "horrific", adding: "If the doctor had put her on antibiotics sooner, she'd still be here."
Tributes have since come pouring in. Nadine Dickson said: "Terribly sorry for your loss. This is so tragic. You are an inspiration for reaching out to other families at this devastating time. My prayers are with you and your family. God bless."
Barbara Morrow wrote: "Sorry for your loss of your little girl thinking of you and your family", as "Emma Lawson added: "So sorry for your loss, sending love an hugs to you an your family."
Kayli Jade said: "Poor family but how amazing is this mum for reaching out to others. Megan would be so proud of her mum."
As Strep A spreads across children in the UK, Karen is urging other parents to know the signs and get their children checked. Strep A, or Group A Streptococcus as it’s also known, is a bacteria most commonly found in the throat and nose that can lead to numerous infections such as scarlet fever, tonsillitis and impetigo.
The bacterium is very common and lots of people will have it unknowingly but in some cases, it can spread to others who may have an increased chance of becoming ill from the infection.
ECHO reader Elaine Monaghan said: "Sorry for your loss hope you find the strength to carry on fly high with the angels gorgeous girl", as Stef Anie wrote: "My heart absolutely breaks for this woman."
Karen, from Skelmersdale, told the ECHO: "If your child has a snotty nose, take them to the doctor, don't walk away, make sure you fight and get something done. People think doctors know best, but a mother does. Strep A has been around for years but it's mad how it's gone now."
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