Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that causes a bright red rash that looks and feels like sandpaper. It is spread through contact with droplets that are released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted by touching food or objects on which the bacteria have landed. The infection is usually spread among kids from 5 to 15 years old and typically occurs at the beginning of a school year or in the winter months.
When did scarlet fever start?
The first symptoms of poze cu scarlatina fever are a sore throat and a fever. The rash usually develops 12 to 48 hours after these symptoms appear. It normally starts on the neck, underarms or groin and then spreads to the body. It may look like small spots on the skin or large blotches. It can also cause a swollen and tender tongue that gives the disease its name of “strawberry tongue”.
A doctor will diagnose scarlet fever by doing a physical exam. They will check the rash and see if any lymph nodes are swollen. They will also ask about other symptoms such as chills and body aches. They will probably order a rapid strep test or throat culture (a painless swab of the throat) to confirm that the bacterium that causes strep throat is also the one causing scarlet fever.
Most cases of scarlet fever are treated with antibiotics to cure the bacterium and prevent complications. Antibiotics normally include a 10-day course of penicillin. However, patients who are allergic to penicillin should receive erythromycin instead.