Signs and Symptoms of Scarlet Fever

Scarlet fever is a common childhood infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes or group A Streptococcus (GAS). The early symptoms of scarlet fever include sore throat, headache, fever, nausea and vomiting. After 12 or 48 hours the characteristic red, pinhead rash develops, typically first appearing on the chest and stomach, then rapidly spreading to other parts of the body and giving then skin a sandpaper like texture. The scarlet rash may be harder to spot on darker skin, although the 'sandpaper' fell should be present. Patients typically have flushed cheeks and pallor around the mouth. This may be accompanied by a 'strawberry tongue'. As the child improves peeling of the skin can occur.

IN SCHOOLS AND NURSERIES IT IS RECOGNISED THAT INFECTIONS CAN SPREAD THROUGH DIRECT PHYSICAL CONTACT BETWEEN CHILDREN AND STAFF AND THROUGH SHARED CONTACT WITH SURFACES.

Actions to take:

• Children and adults with suspected scarlet fever SHOULD NOT ATTEND until 24 hours after starting appropriate antibiotic treatment.
• Whilst scarlet fever is circulating it is important that any children and adults with chickenpox DO STAY OFF SCHOOL until their blisters have dried over, which is usually 5 days after they first appear.