Scarlet fever

Reviewed by Dr John Pillinger, GP

What is scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is a rash accompanied by a sore throat caused by the streptococcus bacteria.

The disease most commonly affects children, but can occur in any age group. The characteristic symptoms are a rash and a 'strawberry tongue'. The disease is treated with antibiotics and it is usually resolved without complications.

It is a notifiable disease in the UK. This means that cases are required by law to be reported to a health officer or local government authority.

How is scarlet fever contracted?

A person can become infected with streptococcus either by touching or through airborne droplets. Scarlet fever appears together with a streptococcal sore throat. The incubation period - the time that passes from infection until the outbreak of the disease - is two to four days.

What are the symptoms of scarlet fever?

A sore throat.

A temperature.

Headache.

Feeling generally unwell.

A rash that develops within 12 hours of the onset and rapidly becomes generalised.

The face is spared, but cheeks are flushed, and the child looks 'scarlet' except for the area around the mouth.

The rash fades after a few days, or sooner if treatment with antibiotics is given, following which the skin undergoes peeling.

The tongue has a thick, white coating that peels after four or five days, producing a red strawberry appearance.

Good advice

When the symptoms appear consult a GP.

Pain on swallowing may be eased by hot drinks and soft food.

Give the patient plenty of fluids.

How does the doctor make a diagnosis?

By looking at the symptoms and examining the throat.

How is scarlet fever treated?

The disease normally disappears within a week without any problems.

The rash may last for a very short time particularly if the patient is treated quickly with antibiotics.

If the patient is allergic to penicillin they are usually treated with erythromycin.

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