Scarlet Fever Flashcards
What is another name for scarlet fever?
Scarlet fever is also known as “scarlatina.”
What bacterium causes scarlet fever?
Scarlet fever is caused by the Streptococcus pyogenes bacterium, also known as group A streptococcus.
How is scarlet fever transmitted?
It is transmitted through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or via airborne transmission from coughing or sneezing.
What is the incubation period for scarlet fever?
The incubation period is 2-3 days, but it can range from 1-6 days.
How long is a person with scarlet fever infectious?
A person is infectious for 2-3 weeks after the onset of symptoms unless treated.
How long does scarlet fever typically last?
Scarlet fever usually lasts about 7 days.
Is scarlet fever self-limiting?
Yes, scarlet fever is self-limiting and usually mild.
Can someone get scarlet fever more than once?
It is uncommon to catch scarlet fever more than once, but it is possible to catch other forms of strep infection.
What age group is most commonly affected by scarlet fever?
Scarlet fever is most common in children between 2-8 years old.
What are the prodromal symptoms of scarlet fever?
Fever (usually above 39°C), sore throat, swollen neck glands, and flu-like symptoms 1-2 days before the rash.
Where does the scarlet fever rash start and spread?
Starts on the chest and abdomen, spreading to the rest of the body (cheeks may appear red, but the face is usually not affected).
What does the scarlet fever rash look like?
Small, raised bumps, rough like sandpaper, red-pink/brown in color. Harder to see on darker skin, but texture is noticeable.
What happens to the skin after the rash resolves?
The skin may peel after the rash resolves.
What is “strawberry tongue” in scarlet fever?
White coating on the tongue that peels, leaving it red, swollen, and covered in small bumps.
What are the common local spread complications of scarlet fever?
Otitis media, throat infection, abscess, sinusitis, and mastoiditis.
What are the immune-mediated complications of scarlet fever?
Acute rheumatic fever (Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can involve the heart, joints, skin, and brain) and glomerulonephritis (When the kidneys’ filters (glomeruli) become inflamed and scarred)
What are invasive Group A streptococcal infections, and how serious are they?
These infections include streptococcal pneumonia, meningitis, cerebral abscess, and sepsis. They are life-threatening with a 15-25% risk of mortality.
What should you do if you suspect scarlet fever?
Contact your GP for a telephone appointment. Scarlet fever is a notifiable disease, so inform the Health Protection Team (HPT) for UKHSA.
What should you use to manage fever and aches in scarlet fever?
Paracetamol can be used for fever and aches. Ibuprofen may also be used, but check for any contraindications.
How can you manage itching in scarlet fever?
Use aqueous calamine cream or antihistamines to manage itching.
Why are antibiotics used for scarlet fever?
Antibiotics reduce illness duration, risk of complications (e.g., pneumonia), and spread of infection.
What is the recommended antibiotic for scarlet fever?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin for 10 days. If allergic to penicillin, alternatives like azithromycin, clarithromycin, or erythromycin (for pregnant or breastfeeding women) are used.
What should you advise regarding antibiotic use for scarlet fever?
Counsel patients to finish the full course of antibiotics and spread doses evenly throughout the day.
What practical measures help prevent the spread of scarlet fever?
Wash hands frequently, use tissues for coughing/sneezing, throw tissues in the bin, and avoid sharing cutlery, cups, towels, clothes, or bedding.
Keep away from nursery/school/work for 24 hours after you take first
dose of antibiotic(s) or 2-3 weeks if no antibiotic(s)
What can help with symptoms like a sore throat from scarlet fever?
Eat soft foods and stay hydrated (try ice lollies). Rest is also important for recovery.
