Darrick Robles Scarlet fever is the body’s response to bacterial toxins (pollutants), often accompanied by a fever, sore throat, and a characteristic rash. Scarlet fever is common in children between the ages of 5 and 15. If left untreated, the disease can last for several weeks. With timely antibiotic therapy, the symptoms improve within a few days.
Symptoms of Scarlet Fever
The following symptoms can occur with scarlet fever:
- rash
- Fever
- tonsillitis
- Sore throat
- Red tongue (commonly referred to as “raspberry tongue”)
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck (sometimes associated with pain)
- Vomit
- headache
The rash usually consists of small, red, sandpaper-like pustules. It typically begins in the upper body and groin area and spreads to the rest of the body, excluding the palms of the hands, soles of the feet and the triangle between the mouth and nose. As the disease progresses, the skin flakes off, particularly on the hands and feet.
Causes of Scarlet Fever
Scarlet fever usually results from a bacterial infection (usually in the form of tonsillitis). The bacteria produce toxins (pollutants) that trigger the body’s immune response and trigger scarlet fever symptoms.
How long is scarlet fever contagious?
Scarlet fever is usually no longer contagious 24 hours after timely antibiotic treatment. If left untreated, the risk of infection with scarlet fever can last up to 3 weeks.
scarlet fever in children
Scarlet fever can affect people of all ages. Generally, however, school-age children are more susceptible to scarlet fever than adults.
Diagnosis (how can a doctor diagnose scarlet fever)
Scarlet fever usually presents itself as a feverish typical skin rash. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck area, sore throat and lack of coughing can increase the suspicion of scarlet fever. In some cases it is advisable to take a throat swab to detect toxin-producing bacteria.
When do I have to go to the doctor?
If you or your child have a fever, sore throat, or rash, you should contact a doctor.
Therapy of scarlet fever
Antibiotic therapy should be given early to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of infection. In addition, the administration of antibiotics protects against further complications such. B. otitis media, sepsis or rheumatic fever, which can be caused by scarlet fever.
Vaccination against scarlet fever
Bacteria can produce different types of toxins that can cause scarlet fever. Since the bacteria in scarlet fever can produce three different toxins, you can only get scarlet fever three times. A vaccination does not exist because the bacteria are so different and it is therefore not technically possible. That is why there is no effective vaccination yet. This also explains why a second illness with scarlet fever is possible.
Here’s how Med-Healths can help with scarlet fever
If you notice signs of scarlet fever in you or your child, you can upload a photo of the rash to our Med-Healths app and discuss your symptoms with a doctor. The doctor can suggest a therapy plan and help with further questions regarding the risk of infection and preventive measures. If necessary, the doctor can issue a prescription, a certificate of incapacity, or refer you to another specialist for a more detailed physical examination.
