Can adults get scarlet fever?

Yes, although scarlet fever is most common in children, adults can also contract it. Adults with weakened immune systems or frequent exposure to children are at higher risk.

Is scarlet fever contagious?

Yes, scarlet fever is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets. An infected person is contagious until they have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours.

What happens if scarlet fever is left untreated?

Untreated scarlet fever can lead to serious complications including rheumatic fever, kidney disease, ear infections, and abscesses. Prompt antibiotic treatment prevents these outcomes.

InfectiousICD-10: A38Estimated 3-5 million strep throat cases per year in the US, with a portion developing scarlet fever

Scarlet Fever

Also known as: Scarlatina

Scarlet fever is a bacterial illness caused by group A Streptococcus that produces a toxin leading to a bright red rash covering most of the body. It most commonly affects children between 5 and 15 years of age and typically accompanies strep throat. With prompt antibiotic treatment, scarlet fever is easily curable and complications are rare.

At a Glance

Common symptoms: Bright red rash with a sandpaper-like texture, Flushed face with pale area around the mouth, Strawberry tongue with red bumps
Main treatments: Antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin, Fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, Adequate fluid intake and rest
Category: Infectious · Estimated 3-5 million strep throat cases per year in the US, with a portion developing scarlet fever
See a doctor if: Sore throat with a red rash

Symptoms

Bright red rash with a sandpaper-like texture

Flushed face with pale area around the mouth

Strawberry tongue with red bumps

High fever above 101°F (38.3°C)

Sore throat with difficulty swallowing

Swollen glands in the neck

Headache and body aches

Nausea or vomiting

Red lines in skin folds (Pastia lines)

Causes

Infection with group A Streptococcus bacteria
Toxin produced by the bacteria causing the rash
Spread through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
Contact with infected skin sores

Risk Factors

Age between 5 and 15 years
Close contact with someone who has strep throat or scarlet fever
Crowded environments such as schools and daycare centers
Weakened immune system

Diagnosis

Physical examination of the rash and throat
Rapid strep test from a throat swab
Throat culture for definitive identification
Blood tests to check for infection markers

Treatment

Antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin
Fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
Adequate fluid intake and rest
Soothing throat lozenges or warm liquids for sore throat

Prevention

Frequent handwashing with soap and water
Avoiding sharing utensils or cups with infected individuals
Covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
Keeping children home from school until at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics

When to See a Doctor

Sore throat with a red rash
Fever that does not respond to treatment
Symptoms that worsen after starting antibiotics
Difficulty breathing or swallowing

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Strep Throat

Infectious

Tonsillitis

Infectious

Impetigo

Infectious

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