What is Scarlet Fever? Scarlet fever is an infectious bacterial
illness which most commonly affects children and is caused by
the Group A streptococcal virus. While this illness used to be
considered a scary and often fatal disease, it is now controlled
and easily treated. Children with scarlet fever often first
present with a high fever and a distinctive rash. It is also
associated with a sore throat, an achy body and a swollen red
"strawberry" tongue which can remain swollen for days after the
initial infection. It must be noted that scarlet fever is not
the same as rheumatic fever, although in some children the
scarlet fever may progress into rheumatic fever a serious
complication that can result in long term consequences.
Diagnosing Scarlet Fever It is important to call your health
care practitioner if your child presents with a rash accompanied
with a fever, especially if this is accompanied by a sore
throat, swollen glands or if someone your child has been in
contact with has had a strep throat infectio