Scarlet Fever

Bacteria called group A Streptococcus or group A strep cause scarlet fever. The bacteria sometimes make a poison (toxin), which causes a rash — the “scarlet” of scarlet fever

How do I get Scarlet fever

  • Group A strep live in the nose and throat and can easily spread to other people. It is important to know that all infected people do not have symptoms or seem sick. People who are infected spread the bacteria by coughing or sneezing, which creates small respiratory droplets that contain the bacteria

Symptoms

  • Very red, sore throat

  • Fever (101 °F or higher)

  • Whitish coating on the tongue early in the illness

  • “Strawberry” (red and bumpy) tongue

  • Red skin rash that has a sandpaper feel

  • Bright red skin in the creases of the underarm, elbow, and groin (the area where your stomach meets your thighs)

  • Swollen glands in the neck


Treatment

Doctors treat scarlet fever with antibiotics. Either penicillin or amoxicillin are recommended as a first choice for people who are not allergic to penicillin. Doctors can use other antibiotics to treat scarlet fever in people who are allergic to penicillin.

Prevention

  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze

  • Put your used tissue in the waste basket

  • Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands, if you don’t have a tissue

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

  • Use an alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water are not available

  • Antibiotics Help Prevent Spreading the Infection to Others

People with scarlet fever should stay home from work, school, or daycare until they:

  • No longer have a fever
    AND

  • Have taken antibiotics for at least 24 hours

Take the prescription exactly as the doctor says to. Don’t stop taking the medicine, even if you or your child feel better, unless the doctor says to stop