Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection caused by the same bacteria that causes strep throat. It is not a very common illness, but it is still seen in some parts of the world. The incidence of scarlet fever has decreased dramatically since the 1900s. In the United States, for example, the incidence of scarlet fever dropped from an estimated 200,000 cases per year in 1900 to approximately 5,000 cases in 2016. However, in certain parts of the world, scarlet fever is still quite common. In 2017, there were 3,000 reported cases of scarlet fever in England.
Scarlet fever is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15. It is spread through contact with an infected person's respiratory secretions, such as saliva or mucus. Symptoms of scarlet fever include a red rash, sore throat, headache, and fever. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, ear and sinus infections, and rheumatic fever.
Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics is key to preventing the spread of scarlet fever. If you suspect that you or your child may have the infection, it is important to seek medical attention right away. With proper treatment, the symptoms usually go away within a few days.