Scarlet fever is a contagious bacterial infection that is particularly common in young children, making it a worry for parents. In late 2023, it was reported that scarlet fever cases were rising significantly in the UK. Similarly, the World Health Organisation has reported that the rise in scarlet fever is a multi-country problem, with outbreaks in several European countries.
Scarlet Fever: Information For Parents
In this article for parents, we outline everything you need to know about scarlet fever.
What Is Scarlet Fever?
Also known as scarlatina, scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that is caused by group A streptococcus – the same bacteria that causes strep throat. It is common in children and teens aged 5-15 years old.
Is It Dangerous?
Relax! In the vast majority of cases, scarlet fever is not dangerous and can easily be treated. Recovery is quick and children are usually back to their cheeky selves within a week. In very rare cases, scarlet fever can lead to rheumatic fever.
Why Does It Affect Children?
It is thought that scarlet fever is more common in children because it is so easily spread. Like chicken pox, scarlet fever is incredibly contagious.
Airborne droplets carry the bacteria, meaning anyone infected can spread it simply by talking, breathing, coughing or touching surfaces/people.
It is spread easily amongst children due to large groups being in close proximity at nurseries, playgroups, schools and playgrounds. Also, younger children are not as efficient at catching coughs/sneezes in tissues and forget to wash their hands without being prompted.
Although it is more common in children, adults can also be infected with scarlet fever.
What Symptoms Will My Child Have?
The symptoms of scarlet fever are the same in adults and children. The first signs of scarlet fever are often mistaken for a common viral infection as they include flu-like symptoms such as a high temperature, body aches, a sore throat and swollen glands in the neck.
However, within 12-48 hours, further symptoms will develop. These include:
- A rash that starts on the chest and tummy before spreading to most of the body. The rash is usually pink/red and clearly visible on white skin but may be harder to see on black or brown skin. It is raised and rough to the touch (like sandpaper).
- A white coating may appear on the tongue, before peeling off to leave the tongue looking red, raw, swollen and with small bumps.
- Darker red lines may appear in the crevices of the body, for example in the folds of skin at the groin, armpits, elbows, and knees.
- The face may also appear flushed.
If your little one has any of the above symptoms, you should contact your GP immediately. Also, ensure your child is regularly washing their hands with water and soap and disposing of any used tissues. You should also keep them away from school/nursery if you suspect scarlet fever.
How Is Scarlet Fever Diagnosed & Treated?
Getting a diagnosis is easy and painless. A doctor may diagnose scarlet fever by asking questions about the symptoms and examining the skin, throat and tongue.
They may also use a PCR test (similar to the test kits used to detect COVID-19) to check for the Strep A strain of bacteria. When necessary, the GP may also do a blood test.
Scarlet fever is treated with a course of antibiotics, which must be completed in full, even if symptoms subside before the end of the course.
As well as antibiotics, you can give your little on paracetamol to help with their temperature and provide lots of cool fluids. Calamine lotion may also be useful for easing itching.
About Debz Louise
Debz Louise is a UK-based lifestyle expert and the founder of several lifestyle blogs. Specialising in everything from interior design and home renovation to body-positive fashion and parenting, Debz brings a wealth of hands-on experience to every guide. Her mission at Stereotude is to simplify the modern world for her readers through expert curation and fiercely honest advice.