Scarlet Fever

Also known as "scarlatina" or "Second Disease", Scarlet fever is a contagious disease that is characterised by a distinctive "scarlet" rash. It caused by a bacteria known as group A streptococcus, which is the same bacteria responsible for strep throat. Group A streptococcus consists of one species of bacteria, Streptococcus pyogenes. Toxins are released by the bacteria, resulting in the typical scarlet rash. It most commonly occurs in young children between 5 and 10 years of age.

Scarlet fever is usually associated with step throat (pharyngeal disease) although in rare cases it can develop from a strep skin infection such as impetigo and cellulitis.

Scarlet fever was once considered a serious childhood illness with a high mortality rate. This  has been substantially decreased since the advent of antibiotics and is now rarely fatal. Scarlet fever is most common in the autumn and winter months. It is spread via respiratory droplets such as coughing and sneezing. The incubation period is between 1 and 5 days.

There are six childhood infections that cause a rash. These are known as "exanthems" (Greek for "breaking out". These are;

• First Disease - Measles

• Second Disease - Scarlet Fever

• Third Disease - Rubella

• Fourth Disease - Duke's disease

• Fifth Disease - Slapped cheek

• Sixth Disease - Roseola

Scarlet fever symptoms:

If your child develops a fever and rash you should seek medical attention immediately. The mortality rate of scarlet fever has been greatly reduced due to antibiotics, it can still be fatal and early treatment should be sought.

Symptoms of scarlet fever include;

• Sore throat.
• Headache.
• Swollen neck glands.
• Fever above 38.3.
• Vomiting.
• Abdominal pain.
• Bright red, fine textured rash, with a rough, sandpaper like feel which blanches upon pressure. This usually starts on the neck and face (often leaving a clear unaffected area around the mouth),  before spreading over the entire body.
• Glossitis (inflammation of the tongue).

Is scarlet fever contagious?

Yes, the group A streptococcus bacteria can be spread from an infected individual to another by sneezing, coughing, shared utensils or direct contact.

How long is scarlet fever contagious?

It is contagious from 24 hours before symptoms appear until 24 hours after antibiotic treatment has commenced.

Scarlet fever treatment:

• Oral antibiotics are the are the mainstay of treatment for scarlet fever. It remains contagious until 24 hours after onset of antibiotics.

• Supportive care. Offer plenty of fluids, bed rest.

• Keep your child's fingernails short to prevent damage from scratching.

Scarlet fever complications:

Left untreated, scarlet fever can lead to rheumatic fever, bacterial infection of the blood, endocarditis (inflammation of the inner lining of the heart) and glomerulonephritis to name a few.

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.