Scarlet fever spreads rapidly, especially in children, and is easily transmitted. It cannot heal on its own, so it is necessary to see a doctor promptly to receive treatment and appropriate antibiotics before the symptoms become severe and harm the body. Being aware of the disease is important for parents to respond promptly.
What is Scarlet Fever?
Scarlet Fever (Scarlet Fever) is caused by the toxins of the Streptococcus Group A bacteria, found mostly in children aged between 5 – 15 years. It causes acute high fever, sore throat, a swollen red tongue resembling a strawberry, red rash on the chest, spreading to the body and limbs. The rash is coarse and feels rough like sandpaper, with possible itching. The color of the rash intensifies in skin folds, especially at the elbows. After the rash fades in 1 week, the skin peels in sheets, particularly at the fingertips, nails, palms, soles, and flakes on the body
What is Streptococcus Group A?
The Streptococcus Group A bacteria (Streptococcus Group A) is a major pathogen causing pharyngitis and can produce the Erythrogenic Toxin that causes rash in scarlet fever
What are the symptoms of Scarlet Fever?
- Acute high fever
- Bright red bumps on the tongue resembling a strawberry
- Red rash appears around the neck, chest, spreading to the body and limbs
- Peeling or flaky skin, particularly on fingertips, toes, armpits, and groin
How is Scarlet Fever transmitted?
The Streptococcus Group A bacteria can be found in the throat, saliva, phlegm, and secretions of patients such as mucus and skin of the body. It is transmitted by inhaling droplets of phlegm when patients cough or sneeze, or through direct contact with the patient’s hands, objects, such as drinking glasses, dishes, or handkerchiefs.
How long is the contagious period?
If infected with scarlet fever, one should isolate from others until at least 24 hours after receiving antibiotics to prevent spreading to others.
How to diagnose Scarlet Fever?
- Symptoms and physical examination, with specific features as mentioned above
- Throat swab test for bacteria using the Rapid Antigen Detection Test which takes less than 1 hour
- Throat culture takes 3 days, which has the advantage of indicating antibiotic resistance
How to treat Scarlet Fever?
- Take antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor for 10 days. Do not stop taking the medication even if symptoms improve before completion to prevent complications such as rheumatic fever and kidney inflammation.
- If complications occur after treatment, such as fever with easy fatigue, joint pain, bumps or lumps under the skin, swelling, red or bloody urine, etc., seek medical attention immediately.
- Get plenty of rest and drink enough water
Is Scarlet Fever life-threatening?
If treated correctly and promptly, scarlet fever can be cured and is not life-threatening. Major complications include rheumatic fever and acute nephritis, which usually occur about 1 – 4 weeks after tonsilitis due to inflammation following bacterial infection, affecting various organs in the body, especially the heart, kidneys, and joints.
How to prevent Scarlet Fever?
Since there is no vaccine to prevent Streptococcus Group A infection, prevention measures include:
- Maintain a strong body, eat a balanced diet of 5 food groups, and get sufficient sleep and rest.
- Avoid close contact with patients; if necessary, wear a mask at all times.
- Wash hands with soap and water for 40 – 60 seconds before and after contact with patients or their belongings.
- Do not share personal items with patients, especially personal items like drinking glasses or handkerchiefs.
If a child with pre-existing conditions develops scarlet fever, severe complications can occur. If suspected of having scarlet fever, see a doctor as soon as possible
Which hospitals are proficient in treating Scarlet Fever?
Bangkok Hospital’s Pediatrics Center is ready to provide care, prevention, and treatment for scarlet fever with expertise from a team of specialized pediatricians, nursing staff, multidisciplinary teams, and state-of-the-art treatment technologies to ensure children regain their health, develop well, and grow up strong.
An infectious disease specialist at Bangkok Hospital
Dr. Porntep Suandork Specialist in infectious diseases, Bangkok Hospital
Click here to book an appointment yourself
Children’s Health Check-up Package
Child Health Check-up Package 3,600 baht
