# data[].attributes.body
- it could be treated by antibiotics
- liquid antibiotics
- example of liquid antibiotics; penicillin, amoxicillin.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Scarlet fever is a bacterial illness that mainly affects children. It causes a distinctive pink-red rash.

The illness is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, also known as group A streptococcus, which are found on the skin and in the throat.

Generally, scarlet fever is much less common than it used to be but in recent years there have been a number of significant outbreaks.

For example, figures published by Public Health England show that from September 2013 to March 2014 there were 2,830 cases of scarlet fever. For the same period in 2014/15 a total of 5,746 cases were recorded. The reason for recent increase is unclear.

It's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of scarlet fever so that early treatment with antibiotics can be given.

Scarlet fever symptoms

Scarlet fever usually follows a sore throat or a skin infection, such as impetigo, caused by particular strains of streptococcus bacteria.

Initial symptoms usually include a sore throat, headache and a high temperature (38.3C/101F or above), flushed cheeks and a swollen tongue.

A day or two later the characteristic pinkish rash appears. It usually occurs on the chest and stomach before spreading to other areas of the body, such as the ears and neck.

The symptoms of scarlet fever usually develop two to five days after infection, although the incubation period (the period between exposure to the infection and symptoms appearing) can be as short as one day or as long as seven days.

The rash feels like sandpaper to touch and it may be itchy. On darker skin the rash may be more difficult to see although its rough texture should be apparent.

When to seek medical advice

Scarlet fever usually clears up after about a week, but if you think you or your child may have it, see your GP for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Your GP should be able to diagnose scarlet fever by examining the distinctive rash and asking about other symptoms. They may also decide to take a sample of saliva from the back of the throat so it can be tested in a laboratory to confirm the diagnosis.

There's no evidence to suggest that catching scarlet fever when pregnant will put your baby at risk. However, if you're heavily pregnant, tell the doctors and midwives in charge of your care if you've been in contact with someone who has scarlet fever.

How scarlet fever spreads

Scarlet fever is very contagious and can be caught by:

breathing in bacteria in airborne droplets from an infected person's coughs and sneezes

touching the skin of a person with a streptococcal skin infection, such as impetigo

sharing contaminated towels, baths, clothes or bed linen

It can also be caught from carriers - people who have the bacteria in their throat or on their skin but don't have any symptoms.

Who's affected by scarlet fever

Most cases (about 80%) of scarlet fever occur in children under 10 (usually between two and eight years of age). However, people of any age can get the illness.

As it's so contagious, scarlet fever is likely to affect someone in close contact with a person with a sore throat or skin infection caused by streptococcus bacteria. Outbreaks often occur in nurseries and schools where children are in close contact with one another.

The symptoms of scarlet fever will only develop in people susceptible to toxins produced by the streptococcus bacteria. Most children over 10 years of age will have developed immunity to these toxins.

It's possible to catch scarlet fever more than once, but this is rare.

Treating scarlet fever

Scarlet fever used to be a very serious illness, but nowadays most cases tend to be mild.

It can easily be treated with antibiotics. Liquid antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, are often used to treat children. These must be taken for 10 days, even though most people recover after four to five days.

It's important to be aware that your child will still be infectious for 24 hours after antibiotic treatment has begun, and therefore they shouldn't attend nursery or school during this period (see below).

Without antibiotic treatment, your child will be infectious for 1-2 weeks after symptoms appear.

Read more about treating scarlet fever.

Complications of scarlet fever

With the right treatment, further problems are unlikely. However, there's a small risk of the infection spreading to other parts of the body and causing more serious infections, such as an ear infection, sinusitis, or pneumonia.

Read more about complications of scarlet fever.

Preventing scarlet fever from spreading

There's currently no vaccine for scarlet fever.

If your child has scarlet fever, keep them away from nursery or school for at least 24 hours after starting treatment with antibiotics. Adults with the illness should also stay off work for at least 24 hours after starting treatment.

GPs, schools and nurseries should be aware of the current high levels of scarlet fever and inform local health protection teams if they become aware of cases, particularly if more than one child is affected.

Children and adults should cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and wash their hands with soap and water after using or disposing of tissues.

Avoid sharing contaminated utensils, cups and glasses, clothes, baths, bed linen or towels.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Scarlet fever is a bacterial illness that mainly affects children. It causes a distinctive pink-red rash. The illness is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, also known as group A streptococcus, which are found on the skin and in the throat.

# data[].attributes.body
- some complications could happen:
- kidney disease
- ear infection
- rheumatic fever
-  arthrites
- pneumonia

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Scarlet fever, also known as scarlatina, is an infection that can develop in people who have strep throat. It's characterized by a bright red rash on the body, usually accompanied by a high fever and sore throat. The same bacteria that cause strep throat also cause scarlet fever.

Scarlet fever mainly affects children between the ages of 5 and 15 years. It used to be a serious childhood illness, but it's often less dangerous today. Antibiotic treatments used early on in the illness have helped speed recovery and reduce the severity of the symptoms.

Share on Pinterest

A rash is the most common sign of scarlet fever in both adults and children. It usually begins as a red blotchy rash and becomes fine and rough like sandpaper. The scarlet-colored rash is what gives scarlet fever its name. The rash can begin up to two to three days before a person feels ill or up to seven days after.

The rash typically begins on the neck, groin, and under the arms. It then spreads to the rest of the body. The folds of skin in the armpits, elbows, and knees can also become a deeper red than the surrounding skin.

After the rash has subsided, about seven days, the skin on the tips of the fingers and toes and in the groin may peel. This can last for several weeks.

Other common symptoms of scarlet fever include:

Scarlet fever is caused by group A Streptococcus, or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, which are bacteria that can live in your mouth and nasal passages. Humans are the main source of these bacteria. These bacteria can produce a toxin, or poison, that causes the bright red rash on the body.

The infection can spread two to five days before a person feels ill and may be spread through contact with droplets from an infected person's saliva, nasal secretions, sneeze, or cough. This means that any person can contract scarlet fever if they come into direct contact with these infected droplets and then touch their own mouth, nose, or eyes.

You may also get scarlet fever if you drink from the same glass or eat off of the same utensils as a person with the infection. In some cases, group A strep infections have been spread through contaminated food.

Group A strep can cause a skin infection in some people. These skin infections, known as cellulitis, can spread the bacteria to others. However, touching the rash of scarlet fever will not spread the bacteria since the rash is a result of the toxin not the bacteria itself.

Scarlet fever mainly affects children between the ages of 5 and 15 years. You catch scarlet fever from being in close contact with others who are infected.

In most cases, the rash and other symptoms of scarlet fever will be gone in about 10 days to 2 weeks with antibiotic treatment. However, scarlet fever can cause serious complications. These can include:

Ear infections, throat abscesses, and pneumonia can best be avoided if scarlet fever is treated promptly with the proper antibiotics. Other complications are known to be the result of the body's immune response to the infection rather than the bacteria themselves.

Your child's doctor will first perform a physical exam to check for signs of scarlet fever. During the exam, the doctor will particularly check the condition of your child's tongue, throat, and tonsils. They'll also look for enlarged lymph nodes and examine the appearance and texture of the rash.

If the doctor suspects your child has scarlet fever, they'll likely swab the back of your child's throat to collect a sample of their cells for analysis. This is called a throat swab and is used to create a throat culture.

The sample will then be sent to a laboratory to determine whether group A Streptococcus is present. There's also a rapid throat swab test that can be performed in the office. This may help identify a group A strep infection while you wait.

Scarlet fever is treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics kill bacteria and help the body's immune system fight off the bacteria causing the infection. Make sure you or your child complete the entire course of the prescribed medication. This will help prevent the infection from causing complications or continuing further.

You can also give certain over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), for fever and pain. Check with your doctor to see if your child is old enough to receive ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Adults may use acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Aspirin should never be used at any age during an illness with fever due to the increased risk of developing Reye's syndrome.

Your child's doctor might also prescribe other medication to help ease the pain of a sore throat. Other remedies include eating ice pops, ice cream, or warm soup. Gargling with salt water and using a cool air humidifier can also decrease the severity and pain of a sore throat.

It's also important that your child drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Your child can return to school after they've taken antibiotics for at least 24 hours and no longer have a fever.

There's currently no vaccine for scarlet fever or group A strep, although many potential vaccines are in clinical development.

Practicing good hygiene is the best way to prevent scarlet fever. Here are some prevention tips to follow and to teach your children:

Wash your hands before meals and after using the restroom.

Wash your hands anytime you cough or sneeze.

Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.

Don't share utensils and drinking glasses with others, especially in group settings.

Scarlet fever needs to be treated with antibiotics. However, there are things you can do to help ease the symptoms and discomfort that come with scarlet fever. Here are a few remedies to try:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Scarlet Fever: Symptoms, Causes, Complications, and Treatment

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Scarlet fever is a condition that can develop in people, usually children, who have strep throat. It's characterized by a bright red rash, high fever, and sore throat. Find out whether it's contagious here. Also learn about treatment options, including home remedies and other ways to prevent complications.

# data[].attributes.body
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Streptococcus_pyogenes.jpg#/media/File:Streptococcus_pyogenes.jpg

# data[].attributes.body
1- avoid becoming in   direct contact with the person having scarlet fever
2- eating or drinking after the person having scarlet fever

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Scarlet fever, also known as scarlatina, is an infection that can develop in people who have strep throat. It's characterized by a bright red rash on the body, usually accompanied by a high fever and sore throat. The same bacteria that cause strep throat also cause scarlet fever.

Scarlet fever mainly affects children between the ages of 5 and 15 years. It used to be a serious childhood illness, but it's often less dangerous today. Antibiotic treatments used early on in the illness have helped speed recovery and reduce the severity of the symptoms.

Share on Pinterest

A rash is the most common sign of scarlet fever in both adults and children. It usually begins as a red blotchy rash and becomes fine and rough like sandpaper. The scarlet-colored rash is what gives scarlet fever its name. The rash can begin up to two to three days before a person feels ill or up to seven days after.

The rash typically begins on the neck, groin, and under the arms. It then spreads to the rest of the body. The folds of skin in the armpits, elbows, and knees can also become a deeper red than the surrounding skin.

After the rash has subsided, about seven days, the skin on the tips of the fingers and toes and in the groin may peel. This can last for several weeks.

Other common symptoms of scarlet fever include:

Scarlet fever is caused by group A Streptococcus, or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, which are bacteria that can live in your mouth and nasal passages. Humans are the main source of these bacteria. These bacteria can produce a toxin, or poison, that causes the bright red rash on the body.

The infection can spread two to five days before a person feels ill and may be spread through contact with droplets from an infected person's saliva, nasal secretions, sneeze, or cough. This means that any person can contract scarlet fever if they come into direct contact with these infected droplets and then touch their own mouth, nose, or eyes.

You may also get scarlet fever if you drink from the same glass or eat off of the same utensils as a person with the infection. In some cases, group A strep infections have been spread through contaminated food.

Group A strep can cause a skin infection in some people. These skin infections, known as cellulitis, can spread the bacteria to others. However, touching the rash of scarlet fever will not spread the bacteria since the rash is a result of the toxin not the bacteria itself.

Scarlet fever mainly affects children between the ages of 5 and 15 years. You catch scarlet fever from being in close contact with others who are infected.

In most cases, the rash and other symptoms of scarlet fever will be gone in about 10 days to 2 weeks with antibiotic treatment. However, scarlet fever can cause serious complications. These can include:

Ear infections, throat abscesses, and pneumonia can best be avoided if scarlet fever is treated promptly with the proper antibiotics. Other complications are known to be the result of the body's immune response to the infection rather than the bacteria themselves.

Your child's doctor will first perform a physical exam to check for signs of scarlet fever. During the exam, the doctor will particularly check the condition of your child's tongue, throat, and tonsils. They'll also look for enlarged lymph nodes and examine the appearance and texture of the rash.

If the doctor suspects your child has scarlet fever, they'll likely swab the back of your child's throat to collect a sample of their cells for analysis. This is called a throat swab and is used to create a throat culture.

The sample will then be sent to a laboratory to determine whether group A Streptococcus is present. There's also a rapid throat swab test that can be performed in the office. This may help identify a group A strep infection while you wait.

Scarlet fever is treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics kill bacteria and help the body's immune system fight off the bacteria causing the infection. Make sure you or your child complete the entire course of the prescribed medication. This will help prevent the infection from causing complications or continuing further.

You can also give certain over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), for fever and pain. Check with your doctor to see if your child is old enough to receive ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Adults may use acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Aspirin should never be used at any age during an illness with fever due to the increased risk of developing Reye's syndrome.

Your child's doctor might also prescribe other medication to help ease the pain of a sore throat. Other remedies include eating ice pops, ice cream, or warm soup. Gargling with salt water and using a cool air humidifier can also decrease the severity and pain of a sore throat.

It's also important that your child drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Your child can return to school after they've taken antibiotics for at least 24 hours and no longer have a fever.

There's currently no vaccine for scarlet fever or group A strep, although many potential vaccines are in clinical development.

Practicing good hygiene is the best way to prevent scarlet fever. Here are some prevention tips to follow and to teach your children:

Wash your hands before meals and after using the restroom.

Wash your hands anytime you cough or sneeze.

Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.

Don't share utensils and drinking glasses with others, especially in group settings.

Scarlet fever needs to be treated with antibiotics. However, there are things you can do to help ease the symptoms and discomfort that come with scarlet fever. Here are a few remedies to try:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Scarlet Fever: Symptoms, Causes, Complications, and Treatment

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Scarlet fever is a condition that can develop in people, usually children, who have strep throat. It's characterized by a bright red rash, high fever, and sore throat. Find out whether it's contagious here. Also learn about treatment options, including home remedies and other ways to prevent complications.

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scarlet-fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20377406

# data[].attributes.body
1- high temperature about 101 F (38.8 C)
2- rash
3-  soar throat
4- difficult swelling
5-  itching
6-  white coating on the tongue
7- swollen glands on the neck

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Scarlet fever, or scarlatina, is an illness involving a distinctive pink-red rash.

It mainly affects children. Left untreated, it can sometimes lead to severe complications.

In the past, it was a serious childhood illness, but modern antibiotics have made it much rarer and less threatening.

However, occasional and significant outbreaks still occur.

Children aged 5 to 15 years have a higher risk of developing scarlet fever than other age groups. Around 80 percent of cases occur in children under 10 years.

Fast facts on scarlet fever

Here are some key points about scarlet fever. More detail is in the main article.

Scarlet fever is less common now than in the past, but outbreaks still occur.

The bacteria that causes strep throat is also responsible for scarlet fever.

It can be successfully treated with antibiotics.

The primary symptoms are a rash, a sore throat, and a fever.

Overview

Scarlet fever can cause a distinctive rash, among other symptoms.
Image credit: Estreya, 2007.

Scarlet fever is caused by a toxin released by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyrogenes), the same organism that causes strep throat.

A small percentage of patients with strep infections, such as strep throat or impetigo, develop scarlet fever.

Another term, scarlatina is often used interchangeably with scarlet fever, but scarlatina more commonly refers to a less acute form.

Early treatment with antibiotics can prevent complications.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms generally appear about 1 to 4 days after initial infection. The first symptoms of scarlet fever are usually:

a red, sore throat, sometimes with white or yellowish patches

a fever of 101 Fahrenheit (38.3 Celsius) or higher, frequently with chills.

A rash appears 12 to 48 hours after these first symptoms.

Red blotches appear on the skin. These turn into a fine pink-red rash that looks like sunburn. The skin feels rough when touched, like sandpaper.

The rash spreads to the ears, neck, elbows, inner thighs and groin, chest, and other parts of the body.

It does not usually appear on the face, but the patient's cheeks will become flushed, and the area around the mouth becomes pale.

If a glass is pressed on the skin, the rash will turn white.

After about 6 days, the rash usually fades. In milder cases, the rash may be the only symptom.

Other possible symptoms include:

difficulty swallowing

feeling unwell

itching

nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain

broken blood vessels in the folds of the body, for example, the armpits, groin, elbows, knees, and neck, known as Pastia's lines

swollen neck glands, or lymph nodes, that are tender to the touch

a white coating forms on the tongue that peels away, leaving a red and swollen "strawberry" tongue

If severe muscle aches, vomiting, or diarrhea occur, the doctor will need to rule out other possible causes, such as toxic shock syndrome (TSS).

The skin of the hands and feet will peel for up to 6 weeks after the rash has gone.

Causes

Scarlet fever is caused by the bacterium S. pyogenes, or group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, the same bacterium that causes strep throat.

When the bacteria release toxins, scarlet fever symptoms occur.

How is it spread?

Scarlet fever can develop from strep throat.

Scarlet fever is passed on through fluids from the mouth and nose. When a person with scarlet fever coughs or sneezes, the bacteria become airborne in droplets of water.

Another person can catch it by inhaling these droplets or by touching something the droplets land on, such as a door handle, and then touching the nose and mouth.

Touching the skin of a person with a streptococcal skin infection can also spread infection. Sharing towels, baths, clothes, or bed linen with an infected person increases the risk.

A person with scarlet fever who is not treated may be contagious for several weeks, even after symptoms have gone.

Some individuals do not react to the toxin. They can carry and pass on the infection without showing any symptoms. Only those who react to the toxin will develop symptoms.

This makes it hard for someone to know if they have been exposed.

Less commonly, infection may occur through touching or consuming contaminated food, especially milk.

The bacteria can spread more easily among people in close contact, for instance at school, home, or work.

Diagnosis

A doctor can normally diagnose scarlet fever by looking at the signs and symptoms.

A throat swab may help determine which bacteria caused the infection. Sometimes a blood test is also ordered.

Treatment

Most mild cases of scarlet fever resolve themselves within a week without treatment.

However, treatment is important, as this will accelerate recovery and reduce the risk of complications.

Treatment normally involves a 10-day course of oral antibiotics, usually penicillin.

The fever will usually go within 12 to 24 hours of taking the first antibiotic medication, and patients normally recover 4 to 5 days after starting the treatment.

Patients who are allergic to penicillin may take erythromycin or another antibiotic instead.
It is important to take the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms go away before it is finished. This is necessary to get rid of the infection and reduce the risk of post-strep disorders developing.
If the patient does not start feeling better within 24 to 48 hours after starting the antibiotic treatment, they should contact a doctor.

The patient is no longer contagious 24 hours after antibiotics begin, but they should stay at home for the full course of antibiotics.

Managing symptoms at home

When following up the antibiotic treatment, other strategies can help relieve symptoms.

It is important to drink plenty of liquids, especially if there is no appetite. The environment should be kept cool.

Tylenol, or acetaminophen, may help relieve aches and pains, and reduce the fever.

Calamine lotion can help reduce itching.

Tylenol, acetaminophen, and calamine lotion are available for purchase online.

Complications

Pneumonia is a potential complication of scarlet fever.

Most people will not experience complications, but the following can occur:

The following complications are possible but very rare:

Another risk is known as pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal (PANDAS) infections.

Some research has indicated that strep bacterial infection may trigger an autoimmune response that worsens symptoms of certain childhood disorders.

These include obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Tourette syndrome, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD).

The increase in symptoms usually passes after a few weeks or months.

Prevention

The best ways to prevent transmission of scarlet fever and other infectious diseases are:

isolation, or staying away from other people, including not attending school

washing or disposing of used handkerchiefs or tissues immediately, and washing the hands thoroughly with warm water and soap

thorough and frequent handwashing with warm water and soap

not sharing drinking glasses or eating utensils

covering the nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing, by using a handkerchief or coughing or sneezing into the inside of the elbow

We picked linked items based on the quality of products, and list the pros and cons of each to help you determine which will work best for you. We partner with some of the companies that sell these products, which means Healthline UK and our partners may receive a portion of revenues if you make a purchase using a link(s) above.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Scarlet fever: Causes, symptoms, treatment, and complications

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Scarlet fever, or scarlatina, is an illness involving a distinctive pink-red rash. It mainly affects children. Left untreated, it can sometimes lead to severe complications. In the past, it was a serious childhood illness, but modern antibiotics have made it much rarer and less threatening. However, occasional and significant outbreaks still occur.

# data[].attributes.body
it could be caused by many fctors such as : bacterium S. pyogenes,group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Scarlet fever, or scarlatina, is an illness involving a distinctive pink-red rash.

It mainly affects children. Left untreated, it can sometimes lead to severe complications.

In the past, it was a serious childhood illness, but modern antibiotics have made it much rarer and less threatening.

However, occasional and significant outbreaks still occur.

Children aged 5 to 15 years have a higher risk of developing scarlet fever than other age groups. Around 80 percent of cases occur in children under 10 years.

Fast facts on scarlet fever

Here are some key points about scarlet fever. More detail is in the main article.

Scarlet fever is less common now than in the past, but outbreaks still occur.

The bacteria that causes strep throat is also responsible for scarlet fever.

It can be successfully treated with antibiotics.

The primary symptoms are a rash, a sore throat, and a fever.

Overview

Scarlet fever can cause a distinctive rash, among other symptoms.
Image credit: Estreya, 2007.

Scarlet fever is caused by a toxin released by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyrogenes), the same organism that causes strep throat.

A small percentage of patients with strep infections, such as strep throat or impetigo, develop scarlet fever.

Another term, scarlatina is often used interchangeably with scarlet fever, but scarlatina more commonly refers to a less acute form.

Early treatment with antibiotics can prevent complications.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms generally appear about 1 to 4 days after initial infection. The first symptoms of scarlet fever are usually:

a red, sore throat, sometimes with white or yellowish patches

a fever of 101 Fahrenheit (38.3 Celsius) or higher, frequently with chills.

A rash appears 12 to 48 hours after these first symptoms.

Red blotches appear on the skin. These turn into a fine pink-red rash that looks like sunburn. The skin feels rough when touched, like sandpaper.

The rash spreads to the ears, neck, elbows, inner thighs and groin, chest, and other parts of the body.

It does not usually appear on the face, but the patient's cheeks will become flushed, and the area around the mouth becomes pale.

If a glass is pressed on the skin, the rash will turn white.

After about 6 days, the rash usually fades. In milder cases, the rash may be the only symptom.

Other possible symptoms include:

difficulty swallowing

feeling unwell

itching

nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain

broken blood vessels in the folds of the body, for example, the armpits, groin, elbows, knees, and neck, known as Pastia's lines

swollen neck glands, or lymph nodes, that are tender to the touch

a white coating forms on the tongue that peels away, leaving a red and swollen "strawberry" tongue

If severe muscle aches, vomiting, or diarrhea occur, the doctor will need to rule out other possible causes, such as toxic shock syndrome (TSS).

The skin of the hands and feet will peel for up to 6 weeks after the rash has gone.

Causes

Scarlet fever is caused by the bacterium S. pyogenes, or group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, the same bacterium that causes strep throat.

When the bacteria release toxins, scarlet fever symptoms occur.

How is it spread?

Scarlet fever can develop from strep throat.

Scarlet fever is passed on through fluids from the mouth and nose. When a person with scarlet fever coughs or sneezes, the bacteria become airborne in droplets of water.

Another person can catch it by inhaling these droplets or by touching something the droplets land on, such as a door handle, and then touching the nose and mouth.

Touching the skin of a person with a streptococcal skin infection can also spread infection. Sharing towels, baths, clothes, or bed linen with an infected person increases the risk.

A person with scarlet fever who is not treated may be contagious for several weeks, even after symptoms have gone.

Some individuals do not react to the toxin. They can carry and pass on the infection without showing any symptoms. Only those who react to the toxin will develop symptoms.

This makes it hard for someone to know if they have been exposed.

Less commonly, infection may occur through touching or consuming contaminated food, especially milk.

The bacteria can spread more easily among people in close contact, for instance at school, home, or work.

Diagnosis

A doctor can normally diagnose scarlet fever by looking at the signs and symptoms.

A throat swab may help determine which bacteria caused the infection. Sometimes a blood test is also ordered.

Treatment

Most mild cases of scarlet fever resolve themselves within a week without treatment.

However, treatment is important, as this will accelerate recovery and reduce the risk of complications.

Treatment normally involves a 10-day course of oral antibiotics, usually penicillin.

The fever will usually go within 12 to 24 hours of taking the first antibiotic medication, and patients normally recover 4 to 5 days after starting the treatment.

Patients who are allergic to penicillin may take erythromycin or another antibiotic instead.
It is important to take the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms go away before it is finished. This is necessary to get rid of the infection and reduce the risk of post-strep disorders developing.
If the patient does not start feeling better within 24 to 48 hours after starting the antibiotic treatment, they should contact a doctor.

The patient is no longer contagious 24 hours after antibiotics begin, but they should stay at home for the full course of antibiotics.

Managing symptoms at home

When following up the antibiotic treatment, other strategies can help relieve symptoms.

It is important to drink plenty of liquids, especially if there is no appetite. The environment should be kept cool.

Tylenol, or acetaminophen, may help relieve aches and pains, and reduce the fever.

Calamine lotion can help reduce itching.

Tylenol, acetaminophen, and calamine lotion are available for purchase online.

Complications

Pneumonia is a potential complication of scarlet fever.

Most people will not experience complications, but the following can occur:

The following complications are possible but very rare:

Another risk is known as pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal (PANDAS) infections.

Some research has indicated that strep bacterial infection may trigger an autoimmune response that worsens symptoms of certain childhood disorders.

These include obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Tourette syndrome, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD).

The increase in symptoms usually passes after a few weeks or months.

Prevention

The best ways to prevent transmission of scarlet fever and other infectious diseases are:

isolation, or staying away from other people, including not attending school

washing or disposing of used handkerchiefs or tissues immediately, and washing the hands thoroughly with warm water and soap

thorough and frequent handwashing with warm water and soap

not sharing drinking glasses or eating utensils

covering the nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing, by using a handkerchief or coughing or sneezing into the inside of the elbow

We picked linked items based on the quality of products, and list the pros and cons of each to help you determine which will work best for you. We partner with some of the companies that sell these products, which means Healthline UK and our partners may receive a portion of revenues if you make a purchase using a link(s) above.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Scarlet fever: Causes, symptoms, treatment, and complications

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Scarlet fever, or scarlatina, is an illness involving a distinctive pink-red rash. It mainly affects children. Left untreated, it can sometimes lead to severe complications. In the past, it was a serious childhood illness, but modern antibiotics have made it much rarer and less threatening. However, occasional and significant outbreaks still occur.

# data[].attributes.body
scarlet fever ( also called scarlatina)
- it is a disease caused by bacteria .
- it is a disease that is common between the age 5-15
- caused by the bacteria that causes the strep throat  disease
- How you may ask?
by releasing toxin which causes the redness and the rash

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Scarlet fever is a bacterial illness that develops in some people who have strep throat. Also known as scarlatina, scarlet fever features a bright red rash that covers most of the body. Scarlet fever almost always includes a sore throat and a high fever.

Scarlet fever is most common in children 5 to 15 years of age. Although scarlet fever was once considered a serious childhood illness, antibiotic treatments have made it less threatening. Still, if left untreated, scarlet fever can result in more-serious conditions that affect the heart, kidneys and other parts of the body.

The signs and symptoms that give scarlet fever its name include:

Red rash. The rash looks like a sunburn and feels like sandpaper. It typically begins on the face or neck and spreads to the trunk, arms and legs. Pushing on the reddened skin makes it turn pale.

Red lines. The folds of skin around the groin, armpits, elbows, knees and neck usually become a deeper red than the other areas with the rash.

Flushed face. The face may appear flushed with a pale ring around the mouth.

Strawberry tongue. The tongue generally looks red and bumpy, and it's often covered with a white coating early in the disease.

Signs and symptoms of scarlet fever also include:

Fever of 100.4 F (38.0 C) or higher, often with chills

Very sore and red throat, sometimes with white or yellowish patches

Difficulty swallowing

Enlarged glands in the neck (lymph nodes) that are tender to the touch

Nausea or vomiting

Belly (abdominal) pain

Headache and body aches

The rash and the redness in the face and tongue usually last about a week. After these signs and symptoms have gone away, the skin affected by the rash often peels.

Talk to your health care provider if your child has a sore throat with:

A fever of 100.4 F (38.0 C) or higher

Swollen or tender glands in the neck

A red rash

Signs and symptoms that need emergency evaluation

In children and teens, any of the following symptoms need emergency evaluation:

New shortness of breath at rest

Trouble breathing (grunting, pulling-in chest muscles between the ribs, nostril flaring)

Noisy, wheezy or raspy breathing that does not clear with coughing

Rapid breathing

Chest pain

Inability to swallow liquids or saliva, muffled voice, or inability to open mouth fully

Confusion, lack of energy, or inability to stay alert and awake

Dizziness when sitting or standing

Drooling (if age 3 years or older)

Persistent or severe vomiting or diarrhea

Dehydration

For infants less than 2 months old, additional symptoms needing emergency evaluation include:

Inability to be comforted

Breathing that repeatedly starts and stops

Temperature less than 96.0 F (35.5 C) or greater than 100.4 F (38 C)

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Scarlet fever is caused by the same type of bacteria that causes strep throat - group A streptococcus (strep-toe-KOK-us), also called group A strep. In scarlet fever, the bacteria release a toxin that produces the rash and red tongue.

The infection spreads from person to person by droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The incubation period - the time between exposure and illness - is usually 2 to 4 days.

Children 5 to 15 years of age are more likely than are other people to get scarlet fever. Scarlet fever germs spread more easily among people in close contact, such as family members, child-care groups or classmates.

Scarlet fever most often occurs after a strep throat infection. Sometimes scarlet fever may occur after a skin infection, such as impetigo. People can get scarlet fever more than once.

If scarlet fever goes untreated, the bacteria may spread to the:

Tonsils

Skin

Blood

Middle ear

Sinuses

Lungs

Heart

Kidneys

Joints

Muscles

Rarely, scarlet fever can lead to rheumatic fever, a serious inflammatory disease that can affect the heart, joints, nervous system and skin.

A possible relationship has been suggested between strep infection and a rare condition called pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with group A streptococci (PANDAS). Children with this condition experience worsened symptoms of neuropsychiatric conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder or tic disorders, with strep. This relationship currently remains unproved and controversial.

There is no vaccine to prevent scarlet fever. The best ways to prevent scarlet fever are the same as the standard precautions against infections:

Wash your hands. Show your child how to wash hands thoroughly with warm soapy water for at least 20 seconds. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used if soap and water are not available.

Don't share dining utensils or food. As a rule, your child shouldn't share drinking glasses or eating utensils with friends or classmates. This rule applies to sharing food, too.

Cover your mouth and nose. Tell your child to cover the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing to prevent the potential spread of germs.

If your child has scarlet fever, wash drinking glasses and utensils in hot soapy water or in a dishwasher after your child uses them.

1. Ferri FF. Scarlet fever. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2022. Elsevier; 2022. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Dec. 21, 2021.

2. Scarlet fever: All you need to know. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/scarlet-fever.html. Accessed Dec. 21, 2021.

3. Scarlet fever: Information for clinicians. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-hcp/scarlet-fever.html. Accessed Dec. 21, 2021.

4. Streptococcal infections. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/infectious-diseases/gram-positive-cocci/streptococcal-infections. Accessed Dec. 21, 2021.

5. AskMayoExpert. Scarlet fever (child). Mayo Clinic; 2021.

6. Acute rheumatic fever: Information for clinicians. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-hcp/acute-rheumatic-fever.html. Dec. 21, 2021.

7. Sore throat. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/sore-throat.html. Accessed Dec. 21, 2021.

8. Drutz JE. Acute pharyngitis in children and adolescents: Symptomatic treatment. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Dec. 22, 2021.

9. Pichichero ME. PANDAS: Pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with group A streptococci. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Dec. 22, 2021.

10. Ristagno EH (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Dec. 23, 2021.

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The difference between scarlet fever and strep throat-Scarlet fever - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic

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Learn more about the symptoms, causes, complications and treatment of this strep bacterial infection that causes a red rash, sore throat and high fever.

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If your child has a sore throat and a rash, it may be scarlet fever (also called scarlatina). Your child's doctor can do a quick strep test to find out.

If your child has scarlet fever, antibiotics can help your child feel better faster and prevent long-term health problems. Antibiotics can also help protect others from getting sick.

Bacteria cause scarlet fever

Bacteria called group A Streptococcus (group A strep) cause scarlet fever. These bacteria are also the cause of strep throat. The bacteria sometimes make a toxin (poison), which causes a rash - the "scarlet" of scarlet fever.

How you get scarlet fever

Group A strep bacteria are very contagious. Generally, people spread the bacteria to others through

Respiratory droplets

Direct contact

Rarely, people can spread group A strep bacteria through food that is not handled properly (visit CDC's food safety page).

It usually takes two to five days for someone exposed to group A strep bacteria to become sick with strep throat or scarlet fever.

Respiratory droplets

Group A strep bacteria often live in the nose and throat. People who are infected spread the bacteria by talking, coughing, or sneezing, which creates respiratory droplets that contain the bacteria.

People can get sick if they:

Breathe in respiratory droplets that contain the bacteria

Touch something with those droplets on it and then touch their mouth or nose

Drink from the same glass or eat from the same plate as a person infected with group A strep

Direct contact

People can also spread group A strep bacteria from infected sores on their skin. Other people can get sick if they:

Touch sores on the skin caused by group A strep (impetigo) or come into contact with fluid from the sores

People are contagious even with no symptoms

Some people infected with group A strep do not have symptoms or seem sick. People who are sick with strep throat are more contagious than those who do not have symptoms.

Rash and fever are common symptoms

In general, scarlet fever is a mild disease. Illness usually begins with a fever and sore throat.
General symptoms
Some symptoms of scarlet fever are common to other infections, too. These may include:

Fever (101°F or higher) or chills

Sore throat and pain when swallowing

Headache or body aches

Stomach pain

Nausea or vomiting

Physical signs
Some physical signs are typical of scarlet fever. These show in the following areas:

Physical signs

Tongue, throat, and neck

Signs in these areas:

Whitish coating on the tongue, early in the illness

"Strawberry" (red and bumpy) tongue

Very red throat

Red and swollen tonsils

White patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils

Tiny, red spots on the roof of the mouth, called petechiae

Swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck

The illustrations below show what these physical signs usually look like.

Skin rash

Signs of scarlet fever rash:

Red rash that feels rough like sandpaper

Brighter red skin in the creases of the underarm, elbow, and groin

A pale area around the mouth

Skin peeling as the rash fades

One to 2 days after the illness begins, a red rash usually appears. However, the rash can appear before illness or up to 7 days later.

The rash may first appear on the neck, underarm, and groin (the area where your stomach meets your thighs). Over time, the rash spreads over the body. The rash usually begins as small, flat blotches that slowly become fine bumps that feel like sandpaper.

Although the cheeks might look flushed (rosy), there may be a pale area around the mouth. Underarm, elbow, and groin skin creases may become brighter red than the rest of the rash.

The rash from scarlet fever fades in about 7 days. As the rash fades, the skin may peel around the fingertips, toes, and groin area. This peeling can last up to several weeks.

Some people are at increased risk

Anyone can get scarlet fever, but there are some factors that can increase the risk of getting this infection.

Age

Scarlet fever, like strep throat, is more common in children than adults. It is most common in children 5 through 15 years old. It is rare in children younger than 3 years old. Adults who are at increased risk for scarlet fever include:

Parents of school-aged children

Adults who are often in contact with children

Group settings

Close contact with another person with scarlet fever is the most common risk factor for illness. For example, if someone has scarlet fever, the bacteria often spread to other people in their household.

Infectious illnesses tend to spread wherever large groups of people gather. Crowded settings can increase the risk of getting a group A strep infection. These settings include:

Schools

Daycare centers

Military training facilities

Doctors can test for and treat scarlet fever

Many viruses and bacteria can cause an illness that includes a red rash and sore throat. A doctor will determine what type of illness you have by asking about symptoms and doing a physical exam. If they think you might have scarlet fever, they will swab your throat to test for strep throat. There are two types of tests for strep throat: a rapid strep test and throat culture.

Rapid strep test

A rapid strep test involves swabbing the throat and running a test on the swab. The test quickly shows if group A strep bacteria are causing the illness.

If the test is positive, doctors can prescribe antibiotics.

If the test is negative, but a doctor still suspects scarlet fever, then the doctor can take a throat culture swab.

Throat culture

A throat culture takes time to see if group A strep bacteria grow from the swab. While it takes more time, a throat culture sometimes finds infections that the rapid strep test misses.

Culture is important to use in children and teens since they can get rheumatic fever from an untreated scarlet fever infection. For adults, it is usually not necessary to do a throat culture following a negative rapid strep test. Adults are generally not at risk of getting rheumatic fever following scarlet fever.

Antibiotics are used for treatment

Doctors treat scarlet fever with antibiotics. Benefits of antibiotics include:

Decreasing how long someone is sick

Decreasing symptoms (feeling better)

Preventing the bacteria from spreading to others

Preventing serious complications like rheumatic fever

When to return to work, school after illness
People with scarlet fever should stay home from work, school, or daycare until they:

AND

Have taken antibiotics for at least 12 to 24 hours; ask the doctor how long you should stay home after starting antibiotics

Antibiotic dos and don'ts

1. Do take the prescription exactly as the doctor says to.

2. Don't stop taking the medicine, even if you or your child feels better, unless the doctor says to stop.

You can find more guidance on taking antibiotics on CDC's Antibiotic Do's & Don'ts Page.

Long-term health problems are not common

Complications can occur after having scarlet fever. This can happen if the bacteria spread to other parts of the body. Complications can include:

Treatment with antibiotics can prevent most of these health problems.

Protect yourself and others

People can get scarlet fever more than once. Having scarlet fever does not protect someone from getting it again in the future. While there is no vaccine to prevent scarlet fever, there are things people can do to protect themselves and others.

Good hygiene

The best way to keep from getting or spreading group A strep is to wash your hands often. This is especially important after coughing or sneezing and before preparing foods or eating.

To prevent group A strep infections, you should:

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

Put your used tissue in the waste basket.

Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands, if you don't have a tissue.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Use an alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water are not available.

You should also wash glasses, utensils, and plates after someone who is sick uses them. These items are safe for others to use once washed.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics help prevent someone with strep throat from spreading the bacteria to others.

Related diseases

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If your child has a sore throat and rash, it may be scarlet fever, a group A strep infection. Do you know the symptoms of this contagious illness and treatment options?