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What are the symptoms of scarlet fever?

Symptoms of scarlet fever appear within about four days of coming into contact with an infected person, usually starting with a sore throat, headache and fever. About 12 to 48 hours later, the characteristic rash begins to show. A few spots generally appear in one place before turning into a rough, pink-to-red rash that looks like sunburn and feels like sandpaper. The rash rapidly spreads to other areas such as the neck, chest, ears, thighs and groin. Other symptoms may include swollen glands, redness in the skin folds, a flushed face and a red, swollen tongue.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection characterized by a rough, red rash that starts on one part of the body and then spreads to other areas. Other symptoms include fever, itchiness, flushing in the face, and a red, swollen tongue. In most cases, scarlet fever …

What causes scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria that live in the nose and throat. These bacteria produce a harmful toxin that travels around the body in the blood, causing widening of the blood vessels and general inflammation. The effects of this are …

Is scarlet fever contagious?

Scarlet fever is usually spread by breathing in droplets of fluid that have been sneezed or coughed out by an infected person. Similarly, the bacteria can be passed on by touching the skin of someone with group A Streptococcus infection, or by sharing …

How is scarlet fever diagnosed?

Scarlet fever is usually diagnosed by looking at symptoms, particularly if a rash is present. Your doctor may also look closely at the throat and glands. A throat culture may also be performed to look for Streptococcus bacteria.

Can scarlet fever be cured?

In the past, scarlet fever was considered to be a serious childhood disease, but it's now easily treated with antibiotics and complications are rare. Most cases of scarlet fever clear within about a week of starting treatment. Over-the-counter medications may …

What is the outlook for scarlet fever?

The outlook for scarlet fever is usually very good, particularly when the condition is correctly diagnosed and treated early with antibiotics. In most cases, the condition clears within about a week of starting treatment with antibiotics, and …

What complications can arise from scarlet fever?

Although most cases of scarlet fever are successfully cured with antibiotics, complications can arise when the condition is left untreated. Possible complications include spread of infection, rheumatic fever, kidney infection or toxic shock …

Can scarlet fever be prevented?

Scarlet fever may be prevented by avoiding contact with people who have a sore throat or skin infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. If contact cannot be avoided, the likelihood of developing scarlet fever may be reduced by maintaining good …

Who gets scarlet fever?

Although scarlet fever can occur in anyone, it's most common in children between two and 10 years of age. This is partly because the condition is easily spread in crowded environments, such as day care centers and schools. However, not everyone is prone to scarlet …

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About this article

Author: Lauren Donley BSc (Hons)
First answered: 06 Nov 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.0 out of 5
Votes: 940 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Strep throat