"Scarlet Fever" Outbreak in Children! Watch for the "Strawberry Tongue" Symptom!

"Scarlet Fever" Outbreak in Children! Watch for the "Strawberry Tongue" Symptom!
      Scarlet fever is a disease caused by infection with Group A Streptococcus bacteria. It is most commonly found in children aged 5-15 years. Patients with scarlet fever develop a red rash covering most of the body, along with a high fever and a sore throat. One of its most distinctive symptoms is the "strawberry tongue", where the tongue appears red and bumpy. Scarlet fever is considered a serious illness in children and does not resolve on its own. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications affecting the heart, kidneys, and other organs.

Key Symptoms of Scarlet Fever

• Scarlet Fever Rash Usually appears within 24-48 hours after the fever starts, though in some cases, it may be the first symptom. The rash often begins on the stomach, chest, or neck before spreading to the arms, legs, and entire body. The rash is typically pink or red and becomes more intense in skin creases like the elbows or armpits. It feels rough, like sandpaper, and may resemble goosebumps. When pressed with a glass, the rash temporarily turns white. After about 3-4 days, the rash begins to peel off in flakes or sheets, starting from the face and neck before moving down to the hands and feet.
• Flushed Cheeks Although the rash usually does not spread to the face, the cheeks often turn bright red, resembling a sunburn, while the area around the mouth remains pale.
• Strawberry Tongue – The tongue appears red, swollen, and bumpy, with a white coating in the early stages.

Preventing and Reducing the Risk of Infection in Children

• If your child has scarlet fever, keep them at home for at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics, until the fever subsides and symptoms improve. This prevents the spread of infection and allows the body time to recover.
• Proper handwashing is crucial for preventing the spread of bacteria, especially after coughing, sneezing, or before handling food. Though this may seem simple, many people do not practice correct handwashing techniques.
• Cover the mouth when coughing or sneezing and avoid sharing drinking glasses, utensils, or towels. Separating the patient's personal items and washing them separately helps prevent the spread of bacteria.

How Is Scarlet Fever Treated?

• Antibiotic Treatment Commonly prescribed antibiotics include penicillin, amoxicillin, or erythromycin, taken for 10 days. Even if symptoms improve within 3-4 days, completing the full course of antibiotics is essential to prevent complications such as rheumatic fever and kidney inflammation.
• Supportive Care Patients should get plenty of rest and stay hydrated.
• Follow-Up Medical Checkups See a doctor if complications occur, such as: persistent fever with fatigue, joint pain, nusual lumps or rashes under the skin, swelling or blood in the urine

Scarlet fever was once considered a severe and life-threatening illness, but thanks to modern medicine, it can now be treated effectively with antibiotics. However, awareness remains essential to ensure proper recognition, prevention, and treatment. Parents should stay informed about symptoms, transmission, and prevention to better protect their children from this bacterial infection.

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