What is scarlet fever? Scarlet fever also known as scarlet fever is an infection that occurs in the throat and is caused by bacteria. This bacterium produces a toxin (poison) that is causing the rash scarlet (red) or red rash that occurs in the skin. The rash of scarlet fever is usually seen in children younger than 18 years. Scarlet fever is always linked to streptococcal infection that occurs in the throat, as can also come from an infected wound. This disease is more common in children between 5 and 15 years of age.
What causes scarlet fever? Scarlet fever is caused by bacteria called Group A beta hemolytic streptococcus. This is the bacteria that also causes strep throat. In those with scarlet fever, the bacteria found in the mouth and nose. Scarlet fever can spread from one sick person to another through coughing, sneezing, or sharing food or drinks. Your child can get sick if he has contact with a person infected with scarlet fever.
What are the signs and symptoms of scarlet fever? The most common sign of scarlet fever is the rash. The rash first appears as small red bumps on the neck, chest and abdomen, and then spread throughout the body. This rash looks like a burn caused by the sun and, when touched, feels like rough sandpaper. This rash can last up to six days. After disappearing, it usually starts to flay the skin of the fingertips and toes. Your child may also have one or more of the following signs and symptoms:
- Bright red lines under the arms and groin. The groin is the area where the upper leg meets the abdomen.
- Fever with chills.
- Headache and body aches.
- Nausea (upset stomach) or vomiting.
- Red and sore throat. The throat may also have white or yellow patches.
- Strawberry-like tongue (swollen and red).
How is scarlet fever diagnosed? To test for scarlet fever is a throat culture. The doctors rub a cotton swab (swab) against the back of the throat of his child. The swab is then sent to the laboratory for examination. Crop, doctors will know what type of germ is causing the illness of his child. The throat culture results will help doctors decide which medication is best for your child.
How is scarlet fever? If the throat culture shows that the strep bacteria is causing the infection, antibiotics will be used. Give it your child antibiotics exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is very important that your child has finished taking antibiotics, even if feeling better.
What problems can cause scarlet fever?
- Heart or kidney disease.
- Meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord).
- Otitis media (middle ear infection).
- Pneumonia (lung infection).
- Sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses).
- Abscess in the throat. An abscess is an infected swelling full of pus that forms beneath the skin.
How can scarlet fever be prevented?
- Call your child's doctor if you can administer antibiotics to the child. Antibiotics may be given if your child has been exposed to a person affected by scarlet fever. Your child may also receive antibiotics, if he has his weak immune system and has also been exposed to scarlet fever.
- Make your child vaccinated against infections caused by viruses or bacteria.
- Keep your child away from people infected with scarlet fever, colds or flu.
- Dispose of used tissues for your child to wipe or blow your nose.
- Wash your hands frequently and the child's hands with soap and water to prevent the spread or spread of this infection.
- The family members should not share utensils with your child used to eat or drink.
