What is scarlet fever?
Scarlet fever, also known as scarlatina disease, is an infection caused by bacteria called Streptococcus. It mainly affects children between the ages of 3 and 8, but adults can catch it too, although it’s less common.
In adults, the illness is often milder and may be mistaken for a simple throat infection or tonsillitis. However, scarlet fever in adults is still contagious and should be treated just like in children to prevent complications.
How is scarlet fever transmitted?
Scarlet fever is a highly contagious illness, especially in group settings like schools, daycare centres or even workplaces. Scarlatina disease spreads mainly through:
- Droplets from an infected person when they cough or sneeze
- Direct contact with someone who has the infection
- Sharing contaminated objects like cups or utensils
After exposure to the bacteria, it usually takes 2 to 5 days for symptoms to appear. Scarlet fever is most contagious in the early stages, especially before antibiotics are started.
What are the symptoms of scarlet fever?
The first signs of scarlet fever often appear suddenly and can closely resemble a throat infection or tonsillitis. Common early scarlatina fever symptoms include:
- High fever
- Severe sore throat
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Soon after, more characteristic signs of scarlatina disease may appear:
- A “strawberry tongue” (red and bumpy appearance);
- A rough-textured red rash that usually starts on:
- the neck,
- the chest,
- and spreads to skin folds like the armpits, elbows, groin and behind the knees.
If your child has a fever, sore throat and a skin rash, scarlet fever could be the cause.
Scarlet fever in adults: milder symptoms, but still contagious
In adults, scarlet fever symptoms can be less pronounced. Sometimes, it presents as nothing more than a sore throat and a moderate fever. The skin rash may be faint or go unnoticed, which can make scarlatina disease harder to identify.
Even if the illness appears milder, an adult with scarlet fever is still contagious and should consult a healthcare professional to receive appropriate scarlatina treatment, including antibiotics.
Can scarlet fever be prevented?
There is currently no vaccine for scarlet fever, but you can reduce the risk of spreading scarlatina disease by practising good hygiene and monitoring symptoms closely.
To help prevent transmission:
- Reinforce respiratory hygiene: teach children to cover their mouth when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash hands regularly, especially after contact with someone who is sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, toys and shared objects.
- Watch for symptoms in anyone who has been in close contact with an infected person and consult a doctor if needed.
- Make sure the diagnosis is confirmed by a healthcare professional so the appropriate measures can be taken.
Should a child with scarlet fever stay home from daycare or school?
Yes. A child diagnosed with scarlet fever should be kept home temporarily to reduce the risk of spreading the infection. They can return to daycare or school 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment, as long as they are feeling well enough to participate in regular activities. Before that point, the child remains highly contagious.
How is scarlet fever treated?
Scarlet fever is easily treated with a prescription oral antibiotic from a doctor. This scarlatina treatment is important because it:
- Shortens the duration of symptoms
- Reduces contagiousness within the first 24 hours
- Helps prevent rare but serious complications
Even if your child starts feeling better after a few days, it’s essential to complete the full course of antibiotics. Stopping too early may lead to a relapse or contribute to antibiotic resistance.
To relieve symptoms, you can also:
- Give a pain reliever to ease sore throat
- Use fever-reducing medication if needed
In addition to medication, it’s important to:
- Encourage plenty of rest
- Keep your child well hydrated
- Offer soft, cool foods that are easier to swallow
After 24 hours of antibiotics, most children are no longer contagious and can safely return to normal activities.
How can your pharmacist help with scarlet fever?
Your pharmacist is here to help! They can explain how to follow the scarlatina treatment correctly, remind you why completing the full antibiotic course is essential and recommend over-the-counter products to relieve fever or sore throat pain.
Your pharmacist can also offer practical advice to support your child’s recovery and help you determine when it’s time to consult a doctor.
Don’t hesitate to stop by your local pharmacy. You’ll find clear answers and professional support to help care for your child with confidence.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. Always consult your pharmacist or doctor for personalized care.
