Verified By Apollo Hospitals October 1, 2024
Scarlet fever is an infection characterized by rashes, a sore throat, and high fever. It is now treatable with antibiotics and is not considered as deadly as it was in past centuries. The infection is highly contagious that spreads from one person to another via droplets expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that affects people with strep throat. It is rare but can be extremely dangerous if left untreated. Otherwise known as scarlatina, scarlet fever covers your body in bright, red rashes, hence its name. Children between 5-15 years of age are the most susceptible to scarlet fever.
Red rashes, high fever, and a sore throat that occurs together needs immediate medical attention .Early diagnosis and treatment can potentially save your life.
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It is caused by a type of bacteria that also causes strep throat. The infection spreads from one person to another through air and contact. Usually, the incubation period is 2-4 days. Children are more prone to scarlet fever than adults.
If scarlet fever goes untreated, the bacteria may spread to the:
Rarely, scarlet fever can lead to rheumatic fever, a serious condition that can affect the:
The primary treatment administered to patients is antibiotics. Make sure the course of the medication gets completed. If you fail to complete the course, you might increase the risk of developing complications.
Here are some steps you can take to reduce discomfort and pain:
Scarlet fever is not as dangerous as it used to be in the past, thanks to the development in medicine and antibiotics. However, leaving it unattended can lead to severe complications and possible death. Make sure you receive immediate medical care if you are diagnosed.
Scarlet fever used to be very dangerous in the past. In the current age, antibiotics and treatments can cure a patient with scarlet fever. However, when left untreated it can lead to severe complications, including fatality. When the case becomes severe, the bacteria become invasive. It may lead to necrotizing fasciitis , toxic shock syndrome, and septicemia. It may also lead to heart complications and even death.
The long-term effects are rheumatic fever, a serious condition that can affect the:
Typically, Scarlet fever lasts for about a week. You can transmit the infection to other people up to six days before the onset of your symptoms until a day after you take your first dose of antibiotics. If you do not take the antibiotics, you will be contagious for up to three weeks after your symptoms show up.