The 3 major signs of common illness that mostly affects young children

Illustration of common symptoms of scarlet fever.

IRISH parents are being urged to recognise the signs of scarlet fever – and know when it’s time to bring your child to a doctor.

Scarlet fever is a contagious infection that mostly affects young children and is caused by the Group A streptococcus bacteria.

The bacteria can manifest on the skin and throat and it can be treated with antibiotics.

The first signs of scarlet fever can be flu-like symptoms including a high temperature over 38C, a sore throat or swollen neck glands.

Parents are advised that most people with a high temperature or a sore throat have another virus and not scarlet fever.

With scarlet fever, a rash appears 12 to 48 hours later. It starts on the chest and tummy, then spreads.

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The rash generally looks like small, raised bumps that make the skin feel rough, like sandpaper.

The face may appear red almost like sunburn with a pale ring around the mouth.

Folds of skin around joints, the neck, and the groin can become a deep red colour.

Those suffering with scarlet fever may also experience a headache, flushed cheeks and a swollen tongue.

In the past, cases of scarlet fever could be extremely serious.

Thankfully, modern day instances are often mild and can easily be treated with antibiotics.

Complications from scarlet fever are rare.

They can happen during or in the weeks after the infection, and can include ear infection, sepsis, throat abscess, sinusitis, pneumonia, meningitis and rheumatic fever.

HSE chiefs advised parents to contact a GP if their child shows certain symptoms.

HSE ADVICE

Contact your GP if you or your child:

have scarlet fever symptoms
have scarlet fever and chickenpox at the same time
are ill again, weeks after scarlet fever got better – this can be a sign of a complication, such as rheumatic fever
are feeling unwell and have been in contact with someone who has scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is very easily spread. Check with a GP before you go in. They may suggest a phone consultation.

A HPSC spokesperson said: “Sometimes a throat swab to test for the bacteria or a blood sample will be required. If diagnosed, it is treated with a 10-day course of antibiotics.

“It is important to take the full 10-days of antibiotic treatment, even if you feel better, as this will reduce the risk of complications and spreading the infection to others.

“Without treatment, a person can be infectious and spread the infection to others for a few weeks.

“However, after 24 hours of antibiotics, a person will not be infectious.

“Those diagnosed with scarlet fever should not attend creche, school, or work until at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics to avoid spreading the infection.”

Scarlet fever can last for around one week but symptoms can be relieved.

Symptoms of scarlet fever can be relieved by drinking cool fluids, eating soft foods if you have a sore throat and taking painkillers.

The bug is so contagious that it’s easily spread if there is an outbreak.

It can spread up to six days before symptoms appear.

You can contract scarlet fever by breathing in bacteria from airborne droplets, touching the skin of an infected person or sharing contaminated towels, baths, clothes or bed linen.

It’s possible to catch it from those who are carrying the bug, but aren’t necessarily affected themselves.