Scarlet fever
Disease Information
Overview
Scarlet fever, also known as scarlatina, is a contagious infection caused by the same bacteria that causes strep throat. In some cases, if your child has strep throat, she may also develop scarlet fever. In addition to your child not feeling well, scarlet fever also results in a fine, "sandpaper-like" rash that consists of small, red bumps.
- commonly occurs between the ages of 2 and 10
- spread from direct contact with a child who is infected
- rash shows up one to two days after infection
- antibiotics can treat the infection
- children with scarlet fever should stay home for 24 hours after starting antibiotics
