Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that most often affects children, but adults can get it too. While it may sound like a disease from the past, it still occurs today.
The good news is that with proper medical care, most people recover quickly.
Knowing the signs of scarlet fever symptoms and getting treated early can help prevent serious complications.
What is scarlet fever?
Scarlet fever is caused by a group A Streptococcus bacterium, the same bacteria that can cause strep throat. In some cases, these bacteria release a toxin that causes a red rash and changes to the tongue (e.g., white coating, red bumps, swelling). When this happens along with strep throat, it’s called scarlet fever.
Scarlet fever is most common among children aged five to 15. However, scarlet fever can occur in adults, especially if they’re around infected children or in crowded places.
Scarlet fever symptoms
Symptoms of scarlet fever often begin suddenly. Many people first notice a sore throat and fever before the rash appears. Other symptoms may include:
- Sudden, high fever, often accompanied by chills, along with head and body aches)
- Very sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue
After these symptoms begin (often within 12 to 48 hours), a fine, sandpaper-like rash on the neck, chest or face often appears.
The scarlet fever rash
The scarlet fever rash is one of the most recognizable signs of the illness. It often:
- Looks bright red, like a sunburn
- Feels rough, like sandpaper
- Starts on the chest or neck
- Spreads to the stomach, arms and legs
- Appears deeper red in skin folds (e.g., in the underarms and elbows)
- Turns pale when pressed
Other common symptoms
As the rash fades, the skin may peel, especially on the hands and feet. Another classic sign of scarlet fever is a “strawberry tongue.” The tongue may look white and coated at first, then become red and bumpy.
If your child develops a fever and rash together, visit Alamo City Urgent Care for prompt treatment.
Not sure what type of rash or allergic reaction you’re dealing with? Walk into your nearest location for same-day treatment.
Symptoms in children vs. adults
Scarlet fever is more common in children. However, adults are not immune.
Common symptoms in children
- Sudden high fever
- Rash within 48 hours
- Swollen tonsils
- Red facial flushing with pale skin around the lips
Common symptoms in adults
Adults typically experience similar, but milder symptoms. Some may have a sore throat and fever without a very noticeable rash. Because of this, scarlet fever in adults can sometimes be mistaken for another illness.Testing can confirm the diagnosis.
What causes scarlet fever?
Scarlet fever is caused by group A strep bacteria that live in the nose and throat. Many people carry them without getting sick.
In some infections, this bacterium can produce a toxin that causes the red rash and tongue changes seen in scarlet fever.
Because scarlet fever is a bacterial infection, it will not go away on its own and antibiotics are required.
How does scarlet fever spread?
Scarlet fever is highly contagious. It can spread through:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Touching contaminated objects or surfaces
- Close contact in schools and households
A person with scarlet fever can spread the infection before they even know they are sick. Children should stay home from school until they have taken antibiotics for at least 24 hours and no longer have a fever.
Is scarlet fever dangerous?
In most cases, scarlet fever is not dangerous when treated quickly with antibiotics. However, if left untreated, it can lead to serious health issues. That’s why prompt medical care is so important.
Possible complications if left untreated
If left untreated, complications from scarlet fever may include:
- Rheumatic fever
- Kidney inflammation
- Ear infections
- Sinus infections
- Throat abscess
- Pneumonia
- Skin infections
Rare complications may include meningitis, toxic shock syndrome and bone infections.
Scarlet fever vs. strep throat: what’s the difference?
Strep throat is a throat infection caused by bacteria, while scarlet fever is strep throat with a toxin that causes a rash.
Not everyone with strep throat develops scarlet fever. However, scarlet fever almost always begins with a strep infection.
If your child has a sore throat and fever, same-day strep testing at Alamo City Urgent Care can help diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.
How is scarlet fever diagnosed?
A healthcare provider can diagnose scarlet fever through a physical exam. They will check:
- The throat and tonsils
- The appearance of the tongue
- The rash texture and location
- Swollen lymph nodes
To confirm their diagnosis, a rapid strep test or throat swab may also be performed.
Scarlet fever treatment
Antibiotics
Scarlet fever is most commonly treated with a 10-day course of antibiotics (e.g., penicillin or amoxicillin).
Even if symptoms improve, it is crucial to take the full course of antibiotics to avoid TBD.
Managing symptoms at home
Along with antibiotics, you can ease symptoms by:
- Taking over-the-counter fever reducers
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Eating soft foods
- Gargling with salt water
- Using a humidifier to soothe the throat
If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of strep throat or scarlet fever, visit your nearest Alamo City Urgent Care location for a prompt evaluation and treatment.
When to visit urgent care for scarlet fever
Visit urgent care if you or your child has:
- A high fever
- A red rash with a rough texture
- Severe sore throat
- Trouble swallowing
- Swollen glands
- Symptoms that do not improve
Early evaluation can confirm the diagnosis and ensure you begin treatment right away, reducing the risk of complications.
How to prevent scarlet fever
While there is no vaccine for scarlet fever, you can lower your risk of infection by:
- Washing hands often
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Avoiding sharing drinks or utensils
- Cleaning frequently touched surfaces
- Keeping sick people at home
Frequently asked questions about scarlet fever
Is scarlet fever contagious?
Yes. Scarlet fever spreads easily through respiratory droplets and close contact. People are usually no longer contagious after 24 hours of antibiotics.
How long does scarlet fever last?
With treatment, fever often resolves within one to two days. The rash usually fades within a week, though peeling may last longer.
Can adults get scarlet fever?
Yes. While scarlet fever is more common in children, adults can develop scarlet fever, especially after exposure to someone infected. Adult-onset symptoms are often milder.
Is scarlet fever the same as strep throat?
No. Scarlet fever is caused by the same bacteria as strep throat, but it includes a rash caused by a bacterial toxin.
