Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that accompanies strep throat. Spread through saliva droplets expelled while sneezing, coughing, or speaking, the bacteria that causes strep throat enters the body and releases a toxin that causes the symptoms of scarlet fever. Scarlet fever most commonly affects children between the age of 5-15.
Common symptoms of scarlet fever include:Scarlet fever is highly contagious, but mostly affects children. The infection is treated with a course of antibiotics that can speed up recovery and reduce symptoms. In most cases, the infection will go away within 10 days to 2 weeks.
If left untreated, scarlet fever can cause complications such as:If you or your child has a sore throat, a red rash, and a fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit, talk to a health care provider right away. Treatment for scarlet fever is more effective the earlier it begins, so it is recommended that you seek medical attention as soon as possible.