Scarlet fever: a common disease
Scarlet fever is a contagious disease caused by the group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus toxin, a very widespread bacterium also responsible for angina. This disease is more common in school children than in babies under 3 years old.
It is mainly characterized by a sore throat, inflammation of the tonsils and a rash. Incubation lasts between 2 to 5 days. Scarlet fever can occur throughout the year, however it is more common during the colder months.
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Scarlet fever: what are the symptoms?
Scarlet fever is accompanied by vomiting, high fever (39-40 ° C), nausea and very frequently abdominal pain. The angina is red and intense, and the tongue, white at the onset of the disease, gradually becomes red at the tip and edges. The rash is diffuse, leaving no gap of healthy skin. The redness is more marked in the folds, such as those of the elbows, knees and groin. They disappear in about a week and the skin begins to peel.
Infants rarely have a sore throat, but they are rather pale and have a constant runny nose. In babies under 6 months, scarlet fever lasts about a week, compared to about two weeks for older children. On the other hand, in infants a runny nose and general irritability may persist for 6 weeks.
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Scarlet fever: when it gets complicated
Left untreated or poorly treated, this disease can lead to two main complications linked to streptococcal infections: rheumatic fever or kidney infection.
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Scarlet fever: what treatment?
No vaccine exists, the only possible treatment is by antibiotics.
To kill bacteria and to prevent complications, antibiotics are prescribed by the doctor for a period that must be observed so that the discomfort disappears in a few days.
Good general hygiene is essential and from the start of treatment, isolate your child for one to 2 days. For meals, prefer cold foods with a soft texture, which are easier to absorb.
Finally, if the fever persists, give it plenty of drink and consult your doctor again.
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