Scarlet Fever
Scarlet fever is a disease that many people are still unfamiliar with. It is commonly seen in children who visit the doctor for fever and sore throat. Key accompanying symptoms include:
- Swollen, red tongue that looks like a strawberry (Strawberry tongue)
- Red rash with a distinctive sandpaper-like texture appearing 1–2 days after the onset of fever. It usually begins on the torso and spreads to the arms and legs. The rash typically does not appear on the face, although the cheeks may appear flushed.
- Paleness around the mouth, darkened creases at the elbow folds. The rash lasts around 3–4 days before peeling begins in flaky or sheet-like patches, starting from the face, neck, and torso, then to the hands and feet.
Scarlet fever is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus group A
This bacterium commonly resides in the throat and can cause infections in the throat and tonsils. It often presents as:
Pus or pinpoint bleeding spots on the throat or tonsils
The bacteria can produce toxins that lead to the rash characteristic of scarlet fever.
Commonly seen in:
- School-aged children between 5 and 15 years old
- People who are in close contact with someone infected with scarlet fever
How to Prevent Scarlet Fever
- Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water
- Avoid sharing personal items with others
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- If symptomatic, avoid close contact with others until fully recovered
Scarlet fever spreads easily through saliva droplets from coughing or sneezing. Transmission typically stops 24 hours after starting the appropriate antibiotic treatment.
