Every wonder why you go to the doctor with a sore throat? It isn’t just to make sure it isn’t strep throat. It is also to prevent the development of Scarlet Fever. It’s caused by the streptococcus bacteria and can be transmitted by physical contact or through the air. If left untreated, the strep sore throat turns into Scarlet Fever, then rheumatic fever, and then potentially heart or kidney problems.
1. A Characteristic Rash
The reason why Scarlet Fever has its name is because of the skin flushing that occurs. It is a distinct redness that occurs when the bacterial infection is present. A rash begins to cover the entire body if treatment isn’t initiated. As a person recovers from the infection, the skin actually begins to flake off, especially on the palms and soles of the feet.
2. Highly Contagious
In its early stages, Scarlet Fever can be passed by coughing, sneezing, or just touching someone. The disease may be fairly rare today thanks to antibiotics and early treatment emphasis for a sore throat. Some believe that the bacteria which cause the disease are also getting weaker because infections are becoming less prevalent around the world.
3. Somewhat Resistant
For children that may be diagnosed with Scarlet Fever, about 1 in 10 of them will not have a successful first course of antibiotic treatments. Sometimes the symptoms persist, which require doctors to take a second culture to confirm the first diagnosis. Then a second round of antibiotics is ordered, but a different class of antibiotic is used.
4. It Has to Be Treated
For families that prefer a homeopathic approach, it is important to note that there is no known natural treatment that can help to remove the bacterial infection that is causing the fever. Natural remedies are useful for treating the symptoms of the disease – especially the sore throat. It takes the antibiotics, however, to begin the healing process.
Scarlet Fever is not something you want to mess around with if you suspect an infection has occurred. If there is a fever, sluggishness, and the trademark reddish skin with rash, then seek medical help right away. It could be a decision that saves a life.
