Scarlet Fever Treatment
About Scarlet fever
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.
- 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.
- 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.
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