Scarlet Fever By Zoe Hays What is Scarlet

Scarlet Fever By Zoe Hays

What is Scarlet Fever? Scarlet fever is a disease caused by infection with the group A Streptococcus bacteria A. K. A The same bacteria that causes Strep Throat. That means anyone can get it!

Anyone.

How Does it Affect My Skin? The time between becoming infected and having symptoms is short, generally 1 - 2 days. The illness typically begins with a fever and sore throat. The rash usually first appears on the neck and chest, then spreads over the body. It is described as "sandpapery" in feel. The texture of the rash is more important than the appearance in confirming the diagnosis. The rash can last for more than a week. As the rash fades, peeling may occur around the fingertips, toes, and groin area.

SCARLET FEVER The pictures above show many of the effects caused by Scarlet Fever.

What Causes Scarlet Fever? It is caused by the streptococcal bacteria, which produce a toxin that leads to the hallmark red rash of the illness. The main risk factor is infection with the bacteria that causes strep throat. A history of strep throat or scarlet fever in the community, neighborhood, or school may increase the risk of infection.

Can I Be Cured? The answer is yes! While Scarlet Fever was once a very serious disease among children, now it can be easily treated. Antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria that causes the throat infection. This is crucial to prevent rheumatic fever, a serious complication of strep throat and scarlet fever itself.

What If I Don’t Get Medical Help? While Scarlet Fever is easily treatable, if it’s left untreated, lifethreatening complications may arise such as: • Rheumatic fever • Otitis media • Pneumonia • Septicaemia • Glomerulonephritis • Osteomyelitis • Death

The Facts You Should Know: 1. Scarlet fever is most common with children from ages 2 – 10 years old. 2. A whitish coating may appear on the surface of the tongue. 3. Scarlet Fever is highly contagious!

Sources http: //www. ncbi. nlm. nih. gov/pubmedhealth/PMH 0001969/ http: //www. webmd. com/a-to-z-guides/scarlet-fever-topic-overview