Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is an infectious disease that primarily affects children aged 5-15 years. Scarlet fever is caused by a group A streptococcal bacterium that produces toxins and causes symptoms such as fever, sore throat and the characteristic red rash.

What is scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is a streptococcal infection caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes, a group A streptococcal bacterium. Scarlet fever is a contagious disease that usually affects children between the ages of 5 and 15, but both adults and smaller children can also be infected.

The same bacteria can also cause a number of other infections, such as strep throat and chicken pox (impetigo).

Causes of scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is highly contagious and spreads from person to person through droplet transmission, usually when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The bacteria can also be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or via surfaces contaminated with the bacteria, such as door handles, toys or other objects.

The risk of being infected by scarlet fever increases with close contact with an infected person, poor hygiene, a weakened immune system and a previous history of streptococcal infections.

Symptoms of scarlet fever

• The most common symptoms of scarlet fever include:

• Fever

• Sore throat

• Characteristic rash: The rash may start on the face and neck, before spreading to the rest of the body. It can be red, sore and itchy (except around the mouth which often fades) and feel like sandpaper to the touch.

• Headache

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal pain

• Ear pain

• "Raspberry tongue": The tongue first gets a white coating, then turns bright red, hence the name "raspberry tongue" or "strawberry tongue".

The symptoms of scarlet fever usually begin with a fever, sore throat and swollen glands. After a day or two, a red rash develops. The tongue can also become swollen, red and have a rough texture with white patches, leading to the name "raspberry tongue".

The symptoms normally last for a week, but after the period of illness the skin will peel off. Children who get streptococcal infections several times often experience milder symptoms.

Treatment of scarlet fever

Treatment of scarlet fever always involves a course of antibiotics. Normal treatment time is 6-10 days, and it is important to complete the entire treatment.

Painkillers and antipyretics can be used to reduce symptoms of pain and discomfort. Products for sores and sore throats can relieve sore throats. Scarlet fever usually goes away within a week, although it may take longer for the rash to disappear.