Scarlet Fever

This is an illness that develops in some people who have a throat infection that is caused by a streptococcal infection. Scarlet fever is most common in children of 5 to 15 years of age. Scarlet fever is characterized by a bright red rash that covers most of the body and is often accompanied by a sore throat and a high fever. In scarlet fever, the bacteria release a toxin that produces the rash and the red tongue. The infection spreads from person to person when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

The symptoms of scarlet fever include:

• Fever over 101 degrees
• A red, sore throat
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Tongue becomes swollen and turns bright red
• The face may appear flushed with a pale ring around the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing

Teach your child to practice the following habits:

• Don't share dining utensils or food
• Wash your hands thoroughly with warm soapy water
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of germs

Contact your doctor if your child has a sore throat accompanied by red rash, swollen tender glands in the neck and a fever of 102 degree Fahrenheit or higher!