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:

• A red rash that looks like a sunburn and is rough to the touch. The rash usually first appears on the face and neck and spreads to the rest of the body.
• Folds of the skin around the armpit, neck, and groin become deep red
• Flushed face A white tongue with red dots on the surface
• Sore throat
• Fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
• Difficulty swallowing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Chills
• Swollen tonsils
• Swollen lymph nodes

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:

• Rheumatic fever
• Kidney infections
• Ear infections
• Pneumonia

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.