Scarlet fever: Three tell-tale signs you’ve caught the infection - including a red cheek
SCARLET fever is a contagious bacterial illness that can affect both adults and children. Symptoms usually develop within a week of being infected, but what are the tell-tale signs to look out for?
Dr Chris gives the low-down on Scarlet Fever
Scarlet fever cases have been on the rise across England
Public Health England figures revealed yesterday that since the beginning of the year, 1,347 cases of Scarlet fever have been reported; 568 more than the same period last year.
In November 2017, Public Health England (PHE) said the recent upsurge in cases was greater than any documented in the last century.
Scarlet fever isn’t usually serious and can be treated with antibiotics.
But what are the symptoms to look out for?
Scarlett fever symptoms: Look for these three tell-tale signs
Scarlet fever isn’t usually serious and can be treated with antibiotics
According to the NHS, once you’ve had scarlet fever, you’re unlikely to get it again. And there are three tell-tale signs you have the infection.
Rash
- Usually starts on the chest or tummy, before spreading to other areas
- Is made up of pink-red blotches that may join up
- Feels like sandpaper (this may be the most obvious sign in someone with dark skin)
- May be brighter red in body folds, such as the armpits or elbows
- Turns white if you press a glass on it
Scarlett fever symptoms: A red face is one of the signs
Scarlett fever symptoms: A rash usually starts on the chest or tummy
Scarlett fever symptoms: A white or red tongue is another sign
Red face
- The rash doesn’t usually spread to the face, but the cheeks may turn very red
- This may look a bit like sunburn
- The area around the mouth usually stays pale
White or red tongue
- Sometimes a white coating may form on the tongue
- This peels away after a few days, leaving the tongue red and swollen