RF is an abnormal immune reaction to a common bacterium called Group A Streptococcus and is preceded two or three weeks earlier by a bacterial throat infection, commonly called ‘strep throat’. Streptococcal infections are most common in childhood and it usually appears in children between the ages of 5 and 15. However, adults and young children can still contract the illness. In some people, repeated streptococcal infections cause the immune system to react against the tissues of the body including inflammation and scarring the heart valves. This is what is referred to as RF. RF patients typically experience a range of symptoms that can include joint pain, fever above 38°C, generally feeling unwell, shortness of breath, a skin rash, heart murmur, and on rare occasions, uncontrolled body movements. People who live in overcrowded and poor conditions, and those between the ages of 5 and 15 years are at greatest risk of developing the disease. 
The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa observes Rheumatic Fever Week. Rheumatic Fever will be observed from the 3rd to 9th of August used to raise awareness about the harm it can cause to young children and individuals. RF also affects up to 40 million people specifically living in low-income countries and around the world it affects 300 000 lives for each year. The Heart and Stroke Foundation attempts to play a role in the fight against preventable heart disease and stroke. They aim to see fewer people suffer from premature deaths and disabilities. They play a role in sharing information and knowledge regarding the relationship between RF and other causes. We spoke to Ms. Shonisani Nephalama, the nutrition science team lead about this topic.
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