Scarlet Fever

Scarlet fever, also known as scarlatina, is a bacterial infection caused by the group A Streptococcus bacteria. Scarlet fever occurs in a small amount of people who have strep throat and most often in children aged 5 to 15 years old.

Symptoms of Scarlet Fever

In addition to the symptoms of strep throat, scarlet fever may have some of the following symptoms:

• Red rash all over the body
• Red lines within the folds of the skin
• Red and bumpy appearance of the tongue that looks like a strawberry
• Fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, sometimes with chills
• Red and sore throat
• Swollen glands
• Chills
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache

The redness and rash usually last for about a week, while other symptoms may disappear sooner.

Complications of Scarlet Fever

Left untreated, scarlet fever can result in the following complications:

• Rheumatic fever
• Kidney disease
• Ear infections
• Skin infections
• Pneumonia
• Arthritis
• Sinus infections

Treatment of Scarlet Fever

If there are signs of scarlet fever, the patient will need to visit their physician. Scarlet fever can be effectively treated with antibiotics to avoid any complications. In addition to antibiotics, scarlet fever symptoms may be relieved by the following:

• Over the counter pain reliever
• Liquid foods
• Cool mist humidifier
• Fluids

Additional Resources

• MedlinePlus
• National Institutes of Health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
• U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
• U.S. National Library of Medicine
• WebMD

Content presented on this website is for general information only. The healthcare provider | Shantavia McCartney FNP-BC | is not responsible for any content selection, or any errors, inconsistencies, or outdated information.