Scarlet Fever

Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus. It mostly affects children. The bacteria are present in the mouth, throat and nose of the infected person. They are transmitted through either respiratory droplets or direct contact with infected respiratory secretions.

The disease begins with fever and sore throat. Headache, vomiting and abdominal pain may also occur. The tongue of patient may have a distinctive "strawberry"-like (red and bumpy) appearance. A "sandpaper" texture-like rash would commonly begin on the first or second day of illness over the upper trunk and neck, which spreads to the limbs. The rash is usually more prominent in armpits, elbows and groin areas. It usually subsides after one week and is followed by skin peeling over fingertips, toes and groin areas.