Four children have now died from Strep A, it has emerged as the bacterial infection continues to sweep primary schools across the UK.
Muhammad Ibrahim Ali, aged four, died at his home on November 14 after suffering a cardiac arrest, said his heartbroken family.
He attended Oakridge School and Nursery in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire.
The news comes as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirms the latest death of a child who contracted Strep A while attending St John's School in Ealing, West London.
Yesterday, Victoria Primary School in Penarth, Wales, confirmed the death of another child who had contracted the infection, named as seven-year-old Hanna Reap by family friends.
A six-year-old pupil in Year One at Ashford Church of England Primary School in Surrey also died from strep A at the beginning of last week.
There is no indication that the four deaths are in any way related.
Muhammad's devastated mum, Shabana Kousar, told Bucks Free Press: "The loss is great and nothing will replace that.
"He was very helpful around the house and quite adventurous, he loved exploring and enjoyed the forest school, his best day was a Monday and said how Monday was the best day of the week.
"He also had a very close bond with his dad. He was his best friend and went everywhere with him. He just wanted to be with him."
A fundraiser has been set up in his memory, which has so far raised over £4,200.
Oakridge School and Nursery's headteacher, Stuart Cook, paid tribute to the "wonderful, kind, smiley and energetic boy".
He wrote on the JustGiving page: "We know that following the devastating news that one of our Reception children, Ibrahim, died earlier this week, many parents and members of the school community will want to contribute to the memory of Ibrahim.
"We want to create a lasting memorial in the school, so that there is always a place at Oakridge for Ibrahim - a place where he was so very happy.
"This will enable us to remember the wonderful, kind, smiley, energetic boy that Ibrahim was. Any money donated through ‘Just Giving’ will go towards his memorial and a charity of the family's choosing."
Hanna Reap, aged 7, has also been tragically named as a victim of the infection after dying on November 25.
A fundraiser set up in her memory yesterday read: "I’m raising funds in memory of beautiful Hanna who died tragically on Friday 25/11/22. She died so suddenly due to contracting Strep A.
"She was the most beautiful, bubbly, funny, loveable person.
"Family are heartbroken. All funds to be donated to a charity of the family’s choice."
One mum said: "My son has been in school with S for many years and we are both heartbroken to hear your tragic news. Sending you all so much love and strength."
And another wrote: "Hanna was a beautiful soul. Our thoughts are with you all at this tragic time."
The NHS states that Group A Streptococcus is the name given to a type of bacteria sometimes found in the throat or on the skin.
Guidance for patients adds: "Group A Streptococcus usually causes mild illness like sore throats and skin infections.
"Rarely these bacteria can cause severe and life-threatening illness called invasive Group A streptococcal disease.
"Many people carry Group A Strep harmlessly and do not develop illness. It can be passed from person to person by close contact such as kissing or skin contact.
"Most people who come into contact with Group A Strep remain well and symptom-free [but] some get mild throat or skin infections.
"Contracting invasive disease from a relative or household member is very rare. You can reduce the risk of picking up Group A Strep by always washing your hands thoroughly."
In respect of symptoms, the NHS adds: "Group A Strep can cause throat infection, scarlet fever, or skin infections such as cellulitis or impetigo. These infections are usually treated with antibiotics.
"Very rarely it can cause severe illness when the bacteria get into parts of the body that are usually free from bacteria such as the lungs, blood, or muscles.
"This is called invasive Group A streptococcal disease. Invasive disease happens when the bacteria get past your body’s immune defences.
"This can happen when you are already ill or are on treatments, such as some cancer treatments, that affect your immune system.
"Two of the most severe types of invasive disease are necrotising fasciitis and toxic shock syndrome."
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