Scarlet Fever and Group A Strep

 

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What is Scarlet Fever?

Scarlet fever is usually a mild illness and is easily treated.

Symptoms include:

  • A sore throat
  • Headache
  • Swollen neck glands
  • Fever
  • A fine, pinkish or red body rash with a sandpapery feel

The rash may be harder to see on darker skin but you should be able to feel it.

Contact your GP or NHS 111 if you think your child has scarlet fever.

 

What is invasive Group A strep?

On very rare occasions the bacteria that causes scarlet fever can get into the bloodstream and cause an illness called invasive Group A strep.

Speak to your GP or call NHS 111 if:

  • Your child is feeding or eating much less than normal
  • Your child feels hotter than usual (for a baby under 3 months a temperature of 38oC, for older than 3 months a temperature of 39oC or higher)
  • Your child is very tired or irritable

Call 999 or go to A&E if:

  • Your child is having difficulty breathing
  • There are pauses when your child breathes
  • Your child's skin, tongue or lips are blue
  • Your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake

Published: Dec 8, 2022