Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that can be deadly in rare cases.
Worldwide pandemics aren’t as unheard of as you might think. As we trudge through the coronavirus, it can be helpful to remember that our ancestors also faced diseases on a global level, as well as innumerable national epidemics.
Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that’s caused by group A Streptococcus. While this infection is now treatable with antibiotics, during the 1800s it caused a worldwide pandemic without help.
Most recently, a five-year old girl in Belfast, Ireland, died from a Strep A bacterial infection. Seven other children have died from strep A infections throughout the UK since September, raising the alarm. If you suspect your child is sick, contact your doctor early for the appropriate treatment. Most cases of Strep A, or scarlet fever, are mild and can be treated at home easily.
How you contract scarlet fever
Scarlet fever is extremely contagious. You can contract this infection by breathing in the bacteria nestled inside infected droplets when someone who has the illness exhales, coughs, or sneezes. If you were to share a drink from the same cup, this type of infection would also result.
You can also contract this illness by coming in contact with towels or bed linens that have touched the skin of someone who has the infection.
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According to Cambridge University Press, during the scarlet fever outbreaks of the 1800s, many people became infected by drinking unpasteurized milk that was handled by infected dairy workers.
The symptoms of scarlet fever
Some people come in contact with scarlet fever bacteria and are lucky enough not to develop any symptoms at all. These individuals are called “carriers” of the illness as they unknowingly spread it to others. Other people develop a very serious infection and die within as little as 48 hours, or fall somewhere in between.
Common symptoms of scarlet fever include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Abscess throat and tonsils
- Inflamed lymph nodes
- Strawberry tongue
- Red rash that feels like sandpaper
If a streptococcal infection is left untreated for a lengthy period of time, the bacteria can travel around a person’s body and affect their skin, joints, brain and skin. Acute rheumatic fever can result in permanent damage to your organs.
How scarlet fever is treated
Scarlet fever is treated with antibiotics given over several days. Penicillin or amoxicillin is usually given.
When to contact your doctor
If you suspect you, your child, or someone in your family may have scarlet fever, get medical help. Contact your doctor or visit your local emergency room.
Experts advise you to trust your judgment and always seek immediate professional help, especially if symptoms are getting worse.
Click here to learn more about scarlet fever and the current situation in the UK. Most cases of scarlet fever are mild and are easily resolved but it’s good to be prudent and aware of the precautions that should be taken.
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