High levels of Scarlet Fever reported

Latest Public Health England report shows a second year of high number of Scarlet Fever notifications across England.  Scarlet Fever is a seasonal illness and the number of cases is likely to peak in the next few weeks.

Dr Theresa Lamagni, PHE’s head of streptococcal infection surveillance, said: “Parents can play a key role in recognising when their child needs to be seen by their GP. Early signs to look out for are sore throat, headache and fever with the characteristic pinkish sandpapery rash appearing within a day or two, typically on the chest and stomach but then spreading to other parts of the body. Individuals who think they or their child may have scarlet fever should see their GP without delay as antibiotic treatment is needed.”

NHS Choices says “There’s no evidence that catching scarlet fever when pregnant will put your baby at risk. However, heavily pregnant women should tell healthcare staff if they have been in contact with someone who has scarlet fever.”

Read the report here

For more information about Scarlet Fever see NHS Choices