Scarlet Fever
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Scarlet Fever is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) — the same bacteria that causes strep throat. It primarily affects children aged 5–15, and presents with a distinctive red rash, fever, and sore throat. While once a serious illness, it is now easily treatable with antibiotics.
🦠 CAUSE
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Pathogen: Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Strep)
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Produces erythrogenic toxin that causes the rash and "strawberry tongue"
📊 WHO GETS IT?
| Group | Risk Level |
|---|---|
| Children (5–15 years) | Highest |
| Adults | Less common |
| Crowded settings (schools, camps) | Higher transmission risk |
| Recent strep throat or contact with infected person | Increased risk |
😷 SYMPTOMS
Symptoms usually appear 1–4 days after exposure and often follow or coincide with strep throat.
| Main Symptoms |
|---|
| High fever (>38.3°C / 101°F) |
| Bright red rash: Feels like sandpaper, starts on chest and spreads |
| Strawberry tongue: Red, swollen, bumpy |
| Sore throat and difficulty swallowing |
| Red lines in skin folds (Pastia's lines) |
| Swollen glands and headache |
| Flushed face with pale mouth area |
| Nausea or vomiting (especially in children) |
🔬 DIAGNOSIS
| Method | Notes |
|---|---|
| Throat swab | Rapid strep test or culture |
| Physical exam | Rash, tongue, and fever guide diagnosis |
| CBC | May show elevated white blood cells |
💊 TREATMENT
Prompt antibiotic treatment shortens illness, prevents complications, and stops spread.
| Treatment | Notes |
|---|---|
| Penicillin V | First-line oral antibiotic |
| Amoxicillin | Often preferred in children |
| Cephalexin | Alternative for mild penicillin allergy |
| Azithromycin or Clindamycin | For severe penicillin allergy |
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Duration: 10 days of oral antibiotics
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Supportive care:
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Paracetamol/ibuprofen for fever and sore throat
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Fluids and rest
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Avoid school/daycare until 24 hours after antibiotics start
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⚠️ COMPLICATIONS (if untreated)
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Rheumatic fever (heart, joint, brain inflammation)
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Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (kidney damage)
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Ear infections
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Skin infections
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Abscesses or cellulitis
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Pneumonia or sepsis (rare)
🛡️ PREVENTION
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Handwashing regularly
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Avoid sharing food, drinks, utensils
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Keep infected children home until no longer contagious
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Early treatment of strep throat
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No vaccine yet, but research is ongoing
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