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Scarlet Fever

Scarlet Fever
2026-06-16

Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus. 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.

Scarlet fever primarily affects children. Early symptoms often include sore throat, fever, headache, nausea and vomiting. The tongue may have a distinctive "strawberry-like" (red and bumpy) appearance. A rash with a "sandpaper" texture would commonly appear on the neck, underarm and groin area on the first or second day of illness. Over time, it would spread over the body. It usually subsides in about one week and is followed by skin peeling over fingertips, toes and groin areas.

For details, please refer to the factsheet of Scarlet Fever

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