Public Health experts in the UK have warned parents to be vigilant for signs of Scarlet Fever after an outbreak of cases in the South West of England.
Irish parents are advised to familiarise themselves with the symptoms of Scarlet Fever as an outbreak of the highly-infectious illness in the UK could be making its way to our shores.
The HSE say that although scarlet fever is rare in Ireland, it is easily spread through close physical contact or by breathing in the bacteria in airborne droplets from an infected person’s coughs and sneezes.
Scarlet fever is also commonly known as scarlatina, but this usually refers to a milder form of the disease. A bacterial illness which causes a distinctive pink-red rash, it is caused by infection from a bacteria known as haemolytic streptococci, which belong to the streptococcus bacteria group.
Although anyone can catch Scarlet Fever, it usually affects children aged between four and eight, the HSE advise that it is easily passed in creche-type environments,
“Because it is so contagious, scarlet fever is likely to affect those who are in close contact with someone who has strep throat or a streptococcal skin infection, and those who live in a crowded environment, such as day care.
Most children over ten will have developed immunity to the toxins from streptococcal bacteria and children under two will have acquired immunity from their mothers.”
What are the symptoms?
- A widespread, fine pink-red rash that feels like sandpaper to touch. It may start in one place, but soon spreads to many parts of the body, such as the ears, neck and chest. It may itch.
- A flushed, red face (hence the name scarlet fever).
- Swollen neck glands, a sore throat, and generally feeling unwell.
- Symptoms appear around one to four days after being infected.
The HSE say that most cases of the illness are mild and easily treated with antibiotics, but have some specific advice for mums and mums-to-be,
“If your child has scarlet fever, do not let them go to school and keep them away from other people until they have been on a course of antibiotics for at least twenty-four hours.
To avoid catching scarlet fever while you are pregnant and to avoid getting the symptoms, such as high temperature and sore throat, try to keep away from any children who have a suspicious-looking skin rash.
There is no evidence that catching scarlet fever when pregnant will put your baby at risk but pregnant women should inform healthcare staff if they are in contact with streptococcal infections, such as scarlet fever, around the time of their delivery.”
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