Scarlet fever

Question 1

Scarlet fever

Answer 1

Bacterial infection cause by streptococcus pyogenes

Question 2

Scarlet fever symptoms

Answer 2

Initial symptoms before rash:
sore throat, headache, high temeprature

Pink-red, itchy sandpaper rash

Red and swollen tongue, ‘strawberry tongue’

Swollen lymph glands

Loss of appetite

Question 3

Referral criteria

Answer 3

All cases of scarlet fever must be referred for an antibiotic, e.g amoxicillin for 10 days

Question 4

Symptomatic relief

Answer 4

For high fever
- Paracetamol

For itching
- Calamine lotion, antihistamine

OTC products should only be offered after the patient has been referred to the GP

Question 5

Scarlet fever advice

Answer 5

Very contagious

Keep children off school for at least 24 hours after starting an antibiotic

Cover mouth after coughing or sneezing

Avoid sharing towels, clothes or linen