Scarlet fever symptoms: What parents should look out for as UK cases surge by 70 per cent
Cases of scarlet fever have recently surged in the UK with parents warned to look out for their children’s health.
In recent weeks, the illness has surged by almost 70 per cent in cases, according to figures released earlier today. The disease, once deadly in Victorian times, has infected almost 450 people in the week ending November 19, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
These figures are doctors referring suspected cases to the local authority or health protection team. There were 446 referrals of suspected scarlet fever between November 12-19, up from 267 in the week ending October 15, just six weeks earlier. But while cases have steadily risen since September they still appear lower than last year at the moment.
The disease is triggered by Group A Strep bacteria. Anyone can catch it but the elderly and young are more commonly affected. In rare cases, the bacteria can reach the bloodstream and cause a fatal invasive disease called iGAS. Usually Strep A causes a mild infection, sometimes resulting in a sore throat. But in rare circumstances it can trigger scarlet fever or even worse complications. More often than not scarlet fever is a mild type of illness.
Scarlet fever cases by region:
- South East - 62
- London - 57
- Wales - 54
- East Midlands - 51
- Yorkshire and Humber - 51
- West Midlands - 44
- South West - 31
- North East - 18
What are the symptoms of scarlet fever?
The NHS warns that the first signs of scarlet fever can be flu-like symptoms. This includes a high temperature, sore throat, and swollen neck glands. Around 12-48 hours later a rash can appear, at first across the chest and stomach, then spreading to the entire body. The rash is made of small, raised bumps and can make your skin feel rough.
You should then visit your GP if:
- you have scarlet fever symptoms
- do not get better in a week
- 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
But due to the highly contagious nature of scarlet fever, check with your GP beforehand as they may recommend a phone consultation instead.
Dr David Cromie, Consultant in Health Protection at the PHA, said: “Scarlet fever is contagious but not usually serious. Early treatment with antibiotics reduces the risk of complications and spread to others. Scarlet fever usually clears up after about a week, but anyone who thinks they or a child may have it should contact a GP for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. It is important to take antibiotics as instructed by your GP, to minimise the risk of complications."
Story by Kieren Williams : MIrror:
- Scientists have finally discovered the cause of morning sickness
- What young children need
- Breakthrough menopause drug that targets key symptom given approval for use in UK
- Keeping your children safe online: All you need to know
- Dear Exhausted and Burnt Out Parents, We’re Here to Help
- How to talk to your kids about death
- Use of menopausal hormone therapy beyond age 65 years and its effects on women's health outcomes by types, routes, and doses
- Scientists debunk myth that human brains are 'underdeveloped' at birth
- What are the health risks to children who vape?
- Changes to skin during menopause explained by experts, including dry skin and acne
- Acting Tips for Kids: How to Engage Your Child Through Theater
- How to nurture creativity in your kids
- Nine things you must consider before adopting a child
- An Overview of Psoriasis in Children
- DIY Fertility Tests Are On The Rise, But How Reliable Are They?
- Dentist shares when children should stop using dummies - or risk bite issues
- Top 10 benefits of breastfeeding
- Reye's syndrome: The illness that affects children
- Diphtheria symptoms: Everything you need to know after case confirmed at UK school
- Children with 'prominent' forehead may in fact be suffering from a dangerous illness
- Study assesses links between early negative life events, orbitofrontal cortical thickness and depression in young adults
- Placenta tumour: My miracle baby gave me cancer
- 7 things to look out for when it comes to vaginal health, according to gynaecologists
- What is the vaginal microbiome?
- What every woman should know about hormones, the pill and cancer
- Home
- Aches and Pains
- Children - Insomnia
- New Born Babies
- Babies From 2-12 months
- Spina Bifida
- Equipment Used
- Drug Abuse
- Other Ingredients
- The Handicapped Child
- Videos
- BALANITIS - Aromachildhood
- Worms
- Corona virus and pregnancy
- Contact Us
- Essential Oils for General Purposes
- The Methods - Aromatherapy - Children-2
- Hydrolats, Essential Oil Waters, and infused Oils
- Ringworm
- The Methods - Aromatherapy - Children- 3
- Basic Care Kit - Children - Essential Oils
- Web Links
- Acne
- Adolescent Acne
- The A - Z of Conditions
- Arthritis (juvenile Rheumatoid)
- Herbal Healing Infused Oils
- Things To Make For Your First Aid Cabinet
- The Cave Man Eating Plan
- The Basic Care Kit For Children
- Verrucas and Warts
- Caring Touch Massage
- The Methods - Aromatherapy - Children
- The Methods - Aromatherapy - Children - 4
- Athlete's Foot - 2
We have 41 guests and no members online