The HSE is currently investigating a possible link between Strep-A and the death of a four-year-old in Ireland.
So far there's been 55 confirmed cases of the disease, known as Group A Streptococcal, in 2022.
Of those cases, 14 were in children under ten, according to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre.
The body reported a "small increase" in the the disease, which can cause a fever, rashes, sore throat, and swollen tongue.
Here's some info on exactly what it is and what to look out for:
Step A comes from Group A Streptococci which is a common bacteria that can lead to things like scarlet fever, tonalities, and laryngitis.
When the Group A Streptococci becomes invasive and gets into parts of the body where it isn't usually found it can be dangerous, and that's when it's known as Strep A or iGAS (Group A Steptococcal infection)
Those cases can be occur when someone gets strep throat, scarlet fever, or the skin infection impetigo - so someone who gets Strep A would generally catch it off the back of another illness linked to Group A Streptococci.
Adults who catch it usually recover fine, but it can be very concerning for children and a number of deaths in the UK and now Ireland may be linked to it.
Parents who are concerned should look out for symptoms like fevers, chills, muscle aches, and sore throats in their kids.
The HSE's website UnderThe Weather.ie can help identify symptoms and advise.
The health executive said if kids are sick, parents should also trust their own instincts and contact their GP if their health deteriorates or they're eating less than usual.
Director for National Health Protection Eamon O'Moore says: "For younger infants, if they have a dry nappy, it could be sign of dehydration, that’s a concern, and if your baby is under three months old and has a temperature of 38 degrees, or is older than three months and has a temperature of 39 degrees or higher, this is an indication to get some medical advice.
""If your child is having difficulty breathing, and grunting noises are noticeable, or that their stomach is sucking in under their ribs as they breath, or if there are pauses in the child's breathing, or if the child’s skin, tongue or lips turn blue, these are very serious signs and you [should] call 999 or try an ED for emergency support."
Antibiotics are available to treat Group A Streptococcal infections, and they can stop transmission after 24 hours of use.
The HSE say more infections are expected, but that there's no reason for alarm as it generally happens around this time every year.
Dr O'Moore added that this year it has been a little less predictable, but suggested less social interactions over the pandemic may have played its part in that.
Missing person located safe and OK after big search operation in Cork
Ireland set to get even colder as snow forecast along with drop to as low as -6C
- Gardai search Cork properties as part of child pornography investigation
- Cork family prepare for 10th and final Christmas swim in memory of Carrigaline teen
- Cork customers raise over €46,000 for charity in Lidl Trolly Dash