Scarlet Fever

Key Points

Overview

Scarlet fever is a highly contagious bacterial infection, primarily affecting young children. It begins with flu-like symptoms such as a high temperature and sore throat, followed by a distinctive red, sandpaper-like rash. The infection is caused by the same bacteria that cause strep throat. While it can be serious if left untreated, antibiotics are highly effective in treating it and preventing complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to ensure a quick recovery and prevent the spread of the infection to others.

Signs and Symptoms

• High temperature
• Sore throat
• Swollen neck glands
• Small, raised, sandpaper-like rash (starts on chest/tummy)
• Pink or red rash on white skin
• Rough-feeling rash on brown/black skin
• White coating on tongue, then red and bumpy ("strawberry tongue")
• Red cheeks (rash not on face)
• Skin peeling as rash fades (like sunburn)

Things That Increase the Risk

• Being a young child
• Close contact with infected individuals
• Attending schools or nurseries
• Not completing antibiotic treatment for strep throat

Diagnosis

• Physical examination of tongue and rash
• Throat swab to test for bacteria
• Blood test (sometimes)

Treatment & Management

• Prescribed antibiotics
• Finish entire course of antibiotics
• Drink cool fluids
• Eat soft foods for sore throat
• Take paracetamol for fever/pain (no aspirin for under 16s)
• Use calamine lotion or antihistamines for itching

Prevention

• Stay home from school/work for 24 hours after first antibiotic dose
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water
• Use tissues to trap germs from coughs or sneezes
• Dispose of used tissues promptly
• Avoid sharing cutlery, cups, towels, bedding

Related Diseases

• Strep Throat
• Rheumatic Fever
• Ear Infection
• Pneumonia
• Meningitis
• Sinusitis

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Scarlet Fever: