Scarlet Fever
Scarlet Fever
Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus.
One of the most common complications of scarlet fever is rheumatic fever and damage to the heart
• Fever, chills and Sore throat (swollen tonsils)
• Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
• Sandpaper like rash
• Strawberry tongue: redness & swelling of tongue
• Vomiting, decreased appetite & difficulty swallowing
• Headaches and fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Joint pain
Complications:
- Rheumatic fever: This is a serious complication that can develop after a streptococcal infection. It can cause damage to the heart, joints, skin, and brain (meningitis).
- Kidney damage: Some people with scarlet fever can develop inflammation of the kidneys called glomerulonephritis/nephritis
- Ear infections: The bacteria that cause scarlet fever can also cause ear infections, which can be severe and lead to hearing loss.
- Pneumonia: Rarely, scarlet fever can cause pneumonia, which is an infection in the lungs.
