Parents were today warned to be on their guard for ‘highly contagious’ and potentially lethal scarlet fever.

The infectious disease, which was most prominent in the Victorian era, largely affects children aged between two and eight.

Historically dangerous, today it is far less serious as the disease can be treated with antibiotics.  

But latest data shows cases in England are above the five year average. 

UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) bosses urged parents to be vigilant, adding ‘it can become serious if left untreated’. 

Scarlet fever symptoms are often flu-like, including a high temperature, a sore throat and swollen neck glands.

A rash appears 12 to 48 hours later, starting on the chest and stomach and then spreading.

A white coating also appears on the tongue which peels, leaving the tongue red, swollen and covered in little bumps—often called ‘strawberry tongue’.

Scarlet fever symptoms are often flu-like, including a high temperature, a sore throat and swollen neck glands

Scarlet fever symptoms are often flu-like, including a high temperature, a sore throat and swollen neck glands

A white coating also appears on the tongue which peels, leaving the tongue red, swollen and covered in little bumps—often called 'strawberry tongue' (pictured)

A white coating also appears on the tongue which peels, leaving the tongue red, swollen and covered in little bumps—often called ‘strawberry tongue’ (pictured)

Early treatment is important as it helps to reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia and the transmission of infection.

Those diagnosed with scarlet fever should stay at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment, and practice good hygiene including hand washing and not sharing utensils.

In the alert, posted on X, the UKHSA said: ‘Scarlet fever mostly affects young children.

‘While it’s usually a mild illness, it can become serious if left untreated.

‘If you or your child have symptoms, contact your GP practice online or over the phone first, as it is highly contagious.’

Latest UKHSA data shows there were 12,176 scarlet fever cases confirmed in England between January to March 2024, including 1,011 cases in just the first two weeks.

This was higher than the average for the previous five years, but below the high levels seen for the same period in 2023.

Dr Theresa Lamagni at UKHSA said: ‘To avoid the infection spreading, it’s important to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly and keep your home well-ventilated. 

Latest UKHSA data shows there were 12,176 scarlet fever cases confirmed in England between January to March 2024, including 1,011 cases in just the first two weeks

Latest UKHSA data shows there were 12,176 scarlet fever cases confirmed in England between January to March 2024, including 1,011 cases in just the first two weeks

Early treatment is important as it helps to reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia and the transmission of infection. Pictured, Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria which can cause scarlet fever

Early treatment is important as it helps to reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia and the transmission of infection. Pictured, Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria which can cause scarlet fever

‘If you or your child has been diagnosed with scarlet fever, you should stay away from nursery, school or work for 24 hours after you start taking antibiotics. 

‘This will help stop the infection spreading to other people. 

‘As with other infections, you should also avoid visiting vulnerable people whilst you’re feeling unwell.’

Scarlet fever is caused by Strep A, which usually causes a mild bacterial infection.

While the vast majority of infections are treatable with antibiotics, in exceptionally rare cases the bacteria can cause invasive Group A Streptococcal (iGAS).

This occurs when the bacteria it gets into parts of the body where it is not normally found, such as the lungs or bloodstream.

Two of the most severe forms of this invasive disease are necrotising fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. Both can kill.

Strep A bacteria can cause a range of other infections, including impetigo and strep throat.

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