It is also known asscarlatina.
Unlike strep throat, people with scarlet fever develop a rash and a red tongue.
This article discusses scarlet fever and its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
Scarlet Fever vs. Strep Throat
Scarlet fever is due to the same bacteria that causesstrep throat.
Strep throat does not always develop into scarlet fever.
Sometimes the skin on certain areas of the body will peel for a few weeks.
Although not common, scarlet fever can develop after a strep infection of the skin such asimpetigo.
What Causes Scarlet Fever?
Group A strep bacteria are responsible for many types of infections, including strep throat and certain skin infections.
The disease spreads more in crowded conditions.Hand washingand covering coughs and sneezes can help prevent spread.
A child is still infectious until after two days of antibiotics.
How Scarlet Fever Is Diagnosed
Scarlet fever is diagnosed in the same way as strep throat.
Both tests will often be performed because the rapid tests can be unreliable.
A full course of antibiotic treatment is vital.
The antibiotics used most often are penicillin and amoxicillin.
For people who are allergic to penicillin, there are plenty of safe alternatives.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can bring down fever and ease general body aches and pains.
Untreated scarlet fever can be spread for a few weeks after symptoms begin.
Avoid drinking raw milk or eating unpasteurized dairy products.
Once a dangerous disease, today it is easily treatable with antibiotics.
The condition is usually diagnosed with a throat swab.
This will help erase the bacteria so they can return to school sooner.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Scarlet fever.
2018;18(2):180-187. doi:10.1016/S1473-3099(17)30693-X
