Queensland statewide RHD resources

RHD and beyond: supporting throat and skin health

Healthy throats and skin are essential to overall wellbeing. Early treatment of infections can help prevent many complications, not just Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD).

These resources can be used beyond the RHD context to support health interventions and community education such as health promotion in First Nations communities.

Key topics

Primary prevention

Prevention focuses on treating strep throat and skin sores early from Group A Streptococcus (Strep A or GAS) infections, before Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) develops. It’s the most effective way to stop the progression of the disease altogether.

1. Recognise the signs: sore throat, fever, headache, or painful skin sores could be early signs of a strep infection.
2. Seek medical care quickly: if a strep infection is suspected, a simple course of antibiotics can completely clear the bacteria.
3. Community awareness matters: the more people understand the link between a sore throat and heart disease, the more lives can be protected.

Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF)

ARF is an autoimmune response that may develop 2–3 weeks after a strep infection. It can cause swelling, pain in the joints, fever, and inflammation of the heart. Each time a person gets ARF, they risk more damage to the heart.

Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)

Over time, repeated ARF episodes can lead to permanent damage to the heart valves. This condition is called RHD. It can lead to serious complications like heart failure, stroke, and early death if not properly managed. RHD is often diagnosed in adolescence or adulthood, but the damage usually begins in childhood.

ARF and RHD are notifiable conditions in Queensland and notifications should be made within 48 hours of suspected or confirmed diagnosis.