The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning regarding an infectious illness that « can become serious if left untreated ». The Government health organisation posted on X on Friday, outlining five crucial symptoms toshould watch for.
UKHSA said: « Scarlet fever is common in young children and usually mild, but it’s important to get it treated so it doesn’t become something more serious. If you spot the symptoms below, contact your GP practice. »
According to an accompanying graphic, symptoms include a bumpy rash, raised temperature, sore throat, ‘strawberry’ tongue, and swollen. NHS guidance adds: « Scarlet fever is a contagious infection that mostly affects young children. It’s easily treated with antibiotics. »
Initial signs of scarlet fever may resemble flu-like symptoms, including an elevated temperature, swollen neck glands, and a painful throat.
The distinctive rash typically emerges 12 to 48 hours afterwards, featuring small, raised bumps that give the skin a sandpaper-like texture.
A white layer also forms on the tongue, which subsequently peels away, leaving the tongue swollen, red and dotted with small bumps – referred to as « strawberry » tongue.
The symptoms present identically in both children and adults, though the condition occurs less frequently amongst grown-ups, reports
Should you contract scarlet fever, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to aid your recovery, minimise the risk of developing more severe complications – such as pneumonia, and decrease the likelihood of transmitting the infection to others.
See a GP if you or your child:
- have scarlet fever symptoms
- do not get better in a week (after seeing a GP)
- have scarlet fever and chickenpox at the same time
- are ill again, weeks after scarlet fever got better – this can be a sign of a complication, such as rheumatic fever
- are feeling unwell and have been in contact with someone who has scarlet fever
However, you should always contact the GP over the phone to check first, due to the contagious nature of Scarlet Fever.
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