Dr Theresa Lamagni, the body's head of streptococcal infection surveillance, said, "Whilst scarlet fever is not usually a severe illness it should be treated with antibiotics to reduce the risk of further complications and to minimize the risk of spread to others.
‘Scarlet fever symptoms such as the scarlet rashes, red tongue and flushed face occur when the Streptococcus bacteria release toxins.’
"Individuals should be mindful of the symptoms of scarlet fever, which include a sore throat, headache and fever with a sandpapery, fine, pinkish/red rash developing within one to two days of first symptoms.
"If you or your child develops any of these symptoms you should contact your GP. Children or adults diagnosed with scarlet fever are advised to stay at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection to others."
Source: Medindia
