It is an infectious disease with rash caused by bacteria (group A streptococci), accompanied by fever, sore throat, and mostly seen between the ages of 5-15 years. It can cause serious complications if not treated properly. Antibiotics are used for treatment.
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How is scarlet fever transmitted?
Scarlet fever is easily and rapidly transmitted through the respiratory route. The time elapsed between the infection of the bacteria and the onset of the symptoms of the disease is 2-4 days. It spreads rapidly among school, work environment and family members. For this reason, it is important to isolate the people who have the disease and to prevent contact. It is contagious for 2-3 weeks from the onset of symptoms. Contagion begins a few days before symptoms appear.
Patients who are started on antibiotics for treatment are also contagious in the first 24 hours from the start of treatment.
What are the symptoms of scarlet fever?
It is a toxin secreted by bacteria that causes scarlet fever symptoms. The toxin causes skin and tongue irritation.
In the beginning, there are flu-like symptoms such as high fever, sore throat, headache, swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck area. After 12-48 hours, small, raised, pink or red rashes begin on the chest and abdomen. Then it spreads over the body and gives the appearance of sandpaper. Cheeks blush.
A white layer forms on the tongue and it peels off over time, leaving a red, swollen tongue covered with small bumps (Strawberry Tongue).
What happens if scarlet fever is not treated?
Antibiotics are used to treat scarlet fever. People who are not properly treated or who do not have adequate immunity may develop complications such as pneumonia, tonsillitis, otitis media or infections in other organs.
Group A streptococci, the cause of scarlet fever, may rarely cause rheumatic fever. This can lead to heart valve diseases in later ages.
How can I protect myself from scarlet fever?
The main method of protection from scarlet fever is to avoid contact with scarlet fever patients. It is not appropriate for people with scarlet fever to go to school or work. It should be isolated and it should be ensured that it does not come into contact with anyone, including other children in the house.
One of the important issues in the prevention of the disease is to comply with the rules of hygiene. Washing hands frequently with soap, using tissues when coughing and sneezing, throwing used tissues in the trash, and preventing the use of the same cutlery, knives, plates, and towels with sick people are protective.
When should I go to the doctor for scarlet fever?
Anyone suspected of having scarlet fever should see a doctor. Since antibiotics are used in the treatment, it should be under the control of a physician. The treatment planning will also change for those who have scarlet fever and chickenpox at the same time, and those who develop scarlet complications.
How is scarlet fever diagnosed?
The diagnosis of scarlet fever is made by anamnesis, examination and laboratory findings.
Issues such as contact with a sick person, the timing of the onset of rashes are questioned. In the examination, the status of the rash, strawberry tongue sign and other additional findings are evaluated.
If needed, your doctor may ask you for throat culture and blood tests.
How is scarlet fever treated?
The treatment of scarlet fever is the use of antibiotics in addition to supportive treatment. If there is an additional disease or complication, treatment is planned accordingly.
It is recommended for scarlet fever patients to rest and drink plenty of fluids. It is used as an antipyretic, pain reliever, throat gargle and antibiotic under the control of a doctor. If there is itching, antihistamines can be used.