Scarlet Fever

What Is Scarlet Fever?

Scarlet fever, sometimes called scarlatina, is an illness caused by a toxin-producing strain of the group A Streptococcus bacteria. It often starts with strep throat or, less commonly, a skin infection, and can lead to a bright red rash that gives the condition its name.

It mainly affects children but can happen at any age. Scarlet fever used to be very serious, but with modern antibiotics, it’s now treatable and rarely causes long-term problems when caught early.

What Causes Scarlet Fever?

Scarlet fever is caused by the same bacteria that causes strep throat. When group A strep releases a certain toxin, it can trigger the body to react with a rash and other symptoms.

You can get scarlet fever by:

• Breathing in droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze
• Sharing drinks, utensils or personal items
• Touching a surface with the bacteria and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes

People with scarlet fever are most contagious during the early stages, especially before starting antibiotics.

Scarlet Fever Symptoms

Symptoms usually appear 1 to 4 days after exposure and often begin with signs similar to strep throat. Common symptoms include:

• A sore throat and fever (over 101°F)
• A red, sandpaper-like rash that typically starts on the chest and spreads
• A flushed face with a pale area around the mouth
• Red, bumpy tongue often called “strawberry tongue”
• Headache, nausea or swollen glands

The rash usually fades in about a week, but the skin may peel afterward, especially on the hands and feet.

How Is Scarlet Fever Diagnosed?

A health care provider may:

• Examine the rash and other symptoms
• Swab the throat to test for group A strep bacteria
• Run a rapid strep test or send the sample to a lab for confirmation

Early diagnosis helps start treatment quickly, reducing symptoms and preventing complications.

How Is Scarlet Fever Treated?

Scarlet fever is treated with antibiotics, most often penicillin or amoxicillin. These medications help clear the infection, reduce the chance of complications and make the person less contagious.

At-Home Care:

• Take antibiotics as directed: Finish the full course even if symptoms improve.
• Drink plenty of fluids: Stay hydrated to support recovery.
• Rest: Let the body heal.
• Ease throat pain: Use warm tea, honey (for children over 1) or throat lozenges.
• Treat fever and discomfort: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help.

Children can usually return to school or daycare 24 hours after starting antibiotics, if they’re feeling better and are fever-free.

How to Prevent Scarlet Fever

Because scarlet fever is spread through germs, the best prevention is practicing good hygiene:

• Wash hands frequently: Especially after coughing or sneezing, and before eating.
• Avoid sharing: Don’t share cups, utensils, or towels with someone who is sick.
• Cover coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or elbow to stop the spread of germs.
• Disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean objects touched often, like doorknobs and light switches.
• Stay home when sick: Keep children home if they show signs of strep or scarlet fever.

Antibiotic treatment also helps stop the spread – people are no longer contagious about 24 hours after beginning medication.

If you're experiencing symptoms or want to learn more about your treatment options, don’t wait – schedule an appointment online with your primary care provider today. They can help answer your questions, evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a specialist if needed.

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