Scarlet Fever Is Back, And You Need To Know The Signs

Health | Did You Know

Scarlet Fever Is Back, And You Need To Know The Signs

Coventry Telegraph

No one wants to see their child sick. When your little one is under the weather, you feel helpless and just want them to get back to their regular selves.

One illness that primarily affects children between 5 and 15 is making a come back across the globe.

This cold and flu season, keep an eye out for the signs to help catch it early.

When you see you kid itching, a rash developing and a sore throat, you can be sure that it's time to see a doctor.

While this infection was more common in the past, thanks to modern antibiotics, it has become less threatening that many of us have forgotten about it.

However, the number of cases have increased again since 2015, due to a new aggressive strain.

The same bacteria responsible for strep throat is also responsible for Scarlet Fever. Streptococcus secretes a toxin in children and those who are prone to the bacteria will likely come down with this illness.

Those become sick with illness will experience a sunburn-like rash on the neck, chest, back and face with the exception of around the mouth.

After six days, the affected skin areas will begin to peel off.

Other symptoms that accompany Scarlet Fever include:

  • High fever (101°F)
  • Red rash
  • Sore throat
  • Flushed face
  • Itchy skin
  • Abdominal pain
  • Swollen neck glands

Scarlet Fever is contagious, so if your little one comes down with the illness, make sure they stay away from their friends and siblings to avoid spreading it.

You will also want to separate their toothbrush from the rest of the family's to avoid the virus from spreading.

Scarlet Fever usually requires a ten-day treatment of antibiotics. You shouldn't be sending them back to school until at least 24 hours since their symptoms have passed.

If gone untreated, Scarlet Fever could cause complications that are linked to kidney, heart and other organ issues.

Share with everyone you know that has kids so that they know about this illness.

Source: Gotta Do The Right Thing