All You Need To Know About Scarlet Fever

The best way to keep from getting or spreading the bacteria that cause scarlet fever is to wash your hands often. Also avoid sharing eating utensils, plates, and drinking glasses. Children with scarlet fever should stay home from school or daycare until they no longer have a fever and have taken antibiotics for at least 12 hours.

Illness usually begins with a fever and sore throat. There also may be chills, vomiting, or abdominal pain. The tongue may have a whitish coating, appear swollen, or look red and bumpy. Small, flat red blotches usually appear first on the neck, underarm, or groin before spreading over the body. Later, the rash starts to feel like sandpaper.

Long-term health problems are rare. They can include rheumatic fever, kidney disease, and arthritis. Other health problems that can occur after scarlet fever include ear, skin, throat, sinus, or lung infections. Treatment with antibiotics can prevent most of these health problems.

The best way to keep from getting or spreading the bacteria that cause scarlet fever is to wash your hands often. Also avoid sharing eating utensils, plates, and drinking glasses. Children with scarlet fever should stay home from school or daycare until they no longer have a fever and have taken antibiotics for at least 12 hours.