What is Scarlet Fever?
Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that mostly affects children. It is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes and is easily spread through the air. Symptoms of scarlet fever include a sore throat, high fever, a red, rough skin rash, and a red and swollen tongue ('raspberry tongue'). The rash usually starts on the neck and chest and spreads to other parts of the body. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications. Scarlet fever is usually treated with oral antibiotics, and the effects of the disease subside quickly with early diagnosis and treatment. Good hand hygiene and limiting contact with sick people help to prevent transmission.
Scarlet Fever
Etiology S.pyogenes (Group A B-hemolytic streptococcus). It is seen in children especially under 5 years of age. Dot-sized widespread maculopapular rashes, fade when pressed, mouth area is pale, chicken skin appearance. Tonsillitis or skin infection is present. Pastia lines can be seen, strawberry tongue sign is present. After the rash, peeling of the skin on the fingers is observed.
Rapid streptococcal tests, throat cultures, or cultures of infected skin material may be performed.
Penicillin and amoxicillin can be used in treatment. If your doctor deems it necessary, he/she will also prescribe other groups of antibiotics.
Scarlet Fever Treatment
Scarlet fever is usually treated with oral antibiotics that are effective against the bacteria that cause the infection, Streptococcus pyogenes. Penicillin is a commonly used antibiotic to treat scarlet fever. Alternative antibiotics are available for patients who are allergic to penicillin. Treatment should be started and completed soon after symptoms begin. This helps speed up the symptoms and prevents the spread of the infection to others. It also reduces the risk of complications. Patients are advised to drink plenty of fluids and rest. By the time antibiotic treatment is started, scarlet fever is usually no longer contagious.
Scarlet Fever Definition and Causes
Scarlet fever is an infection caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes. It is more common in children and is easily transmitted through the air. Symptoms include sore throat, high fever and a characteristic red rash.
Scarlet Fever Symptoms
Symptoms of scarlet fever include a severe sore throat, fever, a red, rough rash, and a red and swollen tongue ('raspberry tongue'). The rash usually starts on the neck and chest and spreads to other parts of the body.
Prevention and Protection
Good hand hygiene is important to prevent scarlet fever. It is recommended to limit contact with sick people to prevent the spread of the disease. There is no vaccine for scarlet fever.
Complications and Things to Consider
If left untreated, scarlet fever can lead to serious complications in the heart and kidneys. There is also an increased risk of rheumatic fever. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if symptoms are noticed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scarlet Fever
Symptoms include a severe sore throat, high fever, a red, rough skin rash, red and swollen tongue ('raspberry tongue') and sometimes nausea or vomiting. The rash may spread down the body, starting from the neck and chest.
Scarlet fever is spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be spread through direct skin contact.
Good hand hygiene and limiting contact with sick people are important in preventing scarlet fever. There is currently no specific vaccine for scarlet fever.
If left untreated, scarlet fever can lead to serious complications such as rheumatic fever, kidney inflammation and, rarely, heart problems.
