Summary about Disease
Scarlet fever is a bacterial illness that develops in some people who have strep throat. It's characterized by a bright red rash that covers most of the body. Scarlet fever is almost always accompanied by a sore throat and high fever. It's most common in children between 5 and 15 years old. While it used to be a serious childhood illness, scarlet fever is now easily treated with antibiotics.
Symptoms
Red Rash: This rash feels like sandpaper and usually starts on the neck and chest, spreading to the rest of the body. The rash may be more pronounced in skin creases, such as under the arms and in the groin.
Sore Throat: Often accompanied by white or yellow patches on the throat.
Fever: A high fever, typically 101°F (38.3°C) or higher.
Strawberry Tongue: The tongue may appear red and bumpy.
Flushed Face: The face may appear red, especially around the cheeks.
Pale Area Around the Mouth: A pale ring may appear around the mouth.
Swollen Glands: The lymph nodes in the neck may be swollen and tender.
Headache: A general headache may be present.
Nausea or Vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea or vomiting.
Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain can sometimes occur.
Causes
Scarlet fever is caused by the Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, also known as group A Streptococcus (group A strep). These bacteria produce a toxin that causes the scarlet fever rash. The infection typically starts in the throat (strep throat) or, less commonly, in the skin (impetigo).
Medicine Used
The primary treatment for scarlet fever is antibiotics.
Penicillin or Amoxicillin: These are commonly prescribed antibiotics.
Alternatives for Penicillin Allergy: If someone is allergic to penicillin, other antibiotics like erythromycin, clindamycin, or azithromycin may be used.
Is Communicable
Yes, scarlet fever is highly communicable. It spreads through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through direct contact with infected skin sores or contaminated surfaces.
Precautions
Handwashing: Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water.
Covering Mouth and Nose: Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Avoid Sharing: Avoid sharing eating utensils, drinking glasses, towels, and other personal items.
Staying Home: Infected individuals should stay home from school or work until they have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours and no longer have a fever.
Proper Disposal of Tissues: Dispose of used tissues properly.
Cleaning and Disinfecting: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
How long does an outbreak last?
An individual with scarlet fever is typically contagious until they have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours. Without antibiotic treatment, they can remain contagious for several weeks, even after symptoms improve. The rash itself usually fades within a week.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Exam: A doctor will examine the throat, skin, and look for other symptoms.
Throat Swab: A sterile swab is used to collect a sample from the back of the throat. This sample is then tested for the presence of group A Streptococcus bacteria. Tests include a rapid strep test (results within minutes) and/or a throat culture (results in 24-48 hours).
Timeline of Symptoms
Incubation Period: Typically 2-5 days between exposure and the onset of symptoms.
Initial Symptoms: Sore throat and fever usually appear first.
Rash: The rash typically appears within 12-48 hours after the onset of fever.
Strawberry Tongue: Develops a few days into the illness.
Resolution: With antibiotic treatment, symptoms usually start to improve within 24-48 hours. The rash fades within approximately a week.
Important Considerations
Complete Antibiotic Course: It is crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve quickly. This helps prevent complications such as rheumatic fever or kidney disease.
Monitor for Complications: Be aware of potential complications and seek medical attention if new or worsening symptoms develop.
Hydration: Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, especially if there is fever or vomiting.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage fever and sore throat pain.
Rest: Get plenty of rest to allow the body to recover.