If you’re concerned about scarlet fever, our free service allows you to connect with a nurse or doctor who can provide guidance on the next steps.

Key Points:

• Scarlet fever, caused by group A streptococci bacteria, is a throat infection accompanied by a red rash.
• Common symptoms include a very red sore throat, swollen glands, fever, and a rash resembling sandpaper.
• Diagnosis involves a physical examination and a throat swab to detect the bacteria.
• Treatment typically involves antibiotics, usually penicillin.

More Information:

Scarlet fever, also known as ‘scarlatina’, primarily affects young children and is caused by the same bacteria responsible for ‘strep throat’ and other infections.

Timely antibiotic treatment can lead to recovery within a week, while untreated cases may result in serious health complications.

Recognizing Symptoms

Initial symptoms of scarlet fever manifest within 1 to 3 days and progress to a distinctive rash, redness of the skin, and peeling of the fingers and toes post recovery.

Additional symptoms may include red bumps on the tongue, sore throat, swollen glands, muscle aches, and chills.

Causes and Transmission

Group A streptococcal bacteria, found in the nose and throat, are spread through sneezing, direct contact, or touching contaminated surfaces.

Children can contract the infection through contact with skin sores of an infected individual.

Other common ways of transmission include sharing personal items such as towels or utensils, as well as close contact with someone who is infected. Poor hygiene practices, such as not washing hands regularly, can also contribute to the spread of the bacteria.

When to Seek Medical Help

If your child displays symptoms of scarlet fever, such as a sore throat, rash, or fever, it’s important to consult a doctor promptly.

Our Service Finder can assist you in locating healthcare services efficiently.

It’s also crucial to seek medical help if your child experiences difficulty breathing, dehydration, persistent vomiting, or any other severe symptoms.

Remember, early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure your child receives the necessary treatment promptly.

Understanding Treatment

Antibiotics, notably penicillin, are the primary treatment for scarlet fever, preventing the spread of bacteria to other body parts and averting severe complications.

Your child’s doctor may recommend rest, pain relief measures, and increased fluid intake.

It’s vital to complete the antibiotic course to prevent further transmission.

In addition to antibiotics and supportive care, it is important to monitor your child’s symptoms closely and contact their doctor if there are any concerns about their condition worsening. It is also important to practice good hygiene, such as regularly washing hands and covering coughs and sneezes, to prevent the spread of scarlet fever to others.

Prevention Tips

Encourage handwashing practices and discourage sharing utensils to reduce the risk of scarlet fever transmission.

Children diagnosed with scarlet fever should remain at home until they recover fully and for at least 24 hours post initiating antibiotic treatment.

Scarlet fever, a common illness in children, is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, leading to a bright red rash. If you suspect scarlet fever, seek medical advice at zero.govt.nz, search for KidsHealth, and contact Healthline at 0800 611 116 for assistance. In case of emergencies, call 111.
**Key Points about Scarlet fever:**
– Common in children
– Causes fever and red rash
– Associated with throat or skin infection by Streptococcus pyogenes
– Visit a health professional if suspected
– Treatment involves antibiotics
Scarlet fever typically affects children after throat or skin infections by Streptococcus pyogenes, resulting in a distinctive red rash. The condition is caused by toxins released by the Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria.
The rash, resembling sandpaper, usually starts on the chest and may become itchy. It can be more pronounced in certain areas, and the skin might peel after the infection resolves. Other symptoms include fever, sore throat, swollen neck glands, vomiting, and a red tongue.
Children aged 4 to 10, who have had throat or skin infections by group A streptococcus, are more susceptible to scarlet fever. The infection can spread through sneezing, coughing, or direct contact.
If scarlet fever is suspected, seek a health professional for proper examination and possibly a strep test. Treatment usually involves antibiotics for complete recovery. Additional treatments may include creams for itching and antihistamines.
For fever and discomfort relief, provide paracetamol following the instructions. Avoid aspirin, ensure plenty of rest, and encourage fluid intake and easy-to-swallow foods. Trim fingernails to prevent skin damage from scratching.
Complications from untreated scarlet fever are rare but possible. To prevent spread, avoid sharing items and maintain hand hygiene. Keep affected children home until at least 24 hours post-antibiotics initiation.