🔅Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that causes a distinctive red rash and other symptoms.
– It is usually a mild illness, but it can have serious complications if not treated promptly. Let's check out and learn more about Scarlet fever.
CAUSES OF SCARLET FEVER
• Scarlet fever is caused by a type of bacteria called group A streptococcus (group A strep), which also causes strep throat.
• The bacteria produces a toxin (poison) that causes the rash and other signs of scarlet fever.
• The infection is spread through contact with respiratory droplets or skin sores from an infected person.
• Children between the ages of 5 and 15 are at higher risk of getting scarlet fever.
SYMPTOMS OF SCARLET FEVER
– The first symptoms of scarlet fever usually appear within 2 to 5 days after exposure to the bacteria. They include a sore throat, fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
• A red rash develops 12 to 48 hours later, starting on the chest and stomach and spreading to other parts of the body. The rash feels like sandpaper and may be more intense in the folds of the skin, such as the armpits, elbows, knees, and groin.
• The face may look flushed with a pale ring around the mouth. The tongue may have a white coating that peels off, leaving it red and bumpy (strawberry tongue). The throat may be very red and swollen, with white patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils.
• The rash and the redness in the face and tongue usually last about a week. After that, the skin affected by the rash may peel off.
• Scarlet fever can be diagnosed by a doctor based on the symptoms and physical examination.
• A throat swab or a blood test may be done to confirm the presence of group A strep bacteria.
• It is important to get tested and treated for scarlet fever, because it can cause serious complications if left untreated.
TREATMENT OF SCARLET FEVER
– Scarlet fever is usually treated with antibiotics, which can help reduce the symptoms, prevent the spread of the infection, and prevent complications.
• The antibiotics should be taken for the full course as prescribed by the doctor, even if the symptoms improve.
• Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help relieve the fever and sore throat.
• Plenty of fluids, rest, and soft foods can also help ease the discomfort.
PREVENTION OF SCARLET FEVER
– Scarlet fever can be prevented by following good hygiene practices, such as:
• Washing hands often with soap and water.
• Using tissues to trap germs from coughs or sneezes and disposing them quickly.
• Not sharing eating utensils, cups, towels, clothes, bedding, or other personal items with someone who has scarlet fever.
• Covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
• Staying away from other people when sick.
• Taking antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor.
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for scarlet fever.
🔅General hygiene recommendations for scarlet fever
– In addition to the prevention measures mentioned above, some general hygiene recommendations for people with scarlet fever are:
• Stay at home until 24 hours after starting antibiotics and no longer having a fever.
• Change toothbrushes after starting antibiotics to avoid re-infection.
• Wash clothes, bedding, and towels at a high temperature to kill any bacteria.
• Clean surfaces and objects that may have been contaminated with bacteria.
• Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.
