Davidson County
Health Department
HEALTH TO YOU A – Z
INFORMATION SHEET
Scarlet Fever
What is Scarlet Fever?
Scarlet Fever or Scarlatina is an infection caused by the Streptococcus A bacteria. Persons who
develop this bright red rash that covers most of the body also will have a strep throat or a strep
skin infection. Because this rash is caused by a bacteria, an antibiotic can rid the body of this
illness. Scarlet Fever is more common in children 5-15 years old and is considered a mild
infection. Although, if scarlet fever and strep are left untreated, serious long-term health problems
can develop. Strep throat, strep skin infections, and scarlet fever are all contagious and getting an
antibiotic can reduce the spread of these illnesses. A child should always see their health care
provider if you suspect a strep infection.
What are the symptoms of it?
 A red rash that feels like sandpaper and looks like a bad sunburn. This rash begins on the
face and neck and spreads to the arms, legs, and trunk of the body. If you press on the
reddened rash, the red will turn pale.
 Red lines in the folds of the skin around the armpits, the elbows, knees, neck, and groin
that are a deeper red than the rash.
 Fever of 101 degrees or above, often with chills
 A very red, sore throat may be present
 A strawberry tongue that looks red and bumpy and may be covered with a white coating
early in the strep infection.
 Headache
 Nausea or vomiting
 Body aches
 Swollen, painful glands in the neck
 Difficulty swallowing
What can scarlet fever lead to if it is not treated?
 The bacteria can spread to other parts of the body including the tonsil abscess, pneumonia,
skin, kidneys, blood, and the middle ear.
 Rarely scarlet fever can lead to Rheumatic Fever which is a serious condtion that can
affect and damage the heart, the joints, brain and nervous system, and the skin.
How can I prevent my child from catching this or spreading this to others?
 Good handwashing
 No sharing of food or eating utensils or glasses
 Cleaning toys before other children play with them
 Coughing or sneezing in the inner elbow or in a tissue
When can my child return to school or daycare?
When your child has taken the medication prescribed by the Medical Provider for 24 hours, then
he/she can return to school or daycare, if the child feels well enough to participate in normal
activities and the temperature has returned to normal for 24 hours.
PO Box 439, Lexington, NC 27293
(336) 242-2300
www.dchdnc.com