Scarlet Fever: What You Need To Know About It

Do you know what scarlet fever is? When children suffer from scarlet fever , they do not always get the right treatment. The result is that they are longer about getting better and overcoming the symptoms.

Therefore, it is important that you find out everything you can about how to treat this disease.

Whether you have experienced scarlet fever yourself or there is someone close to you who has experienced it, there are certain aspects of this disease that are often overlooked – especially when it comes to treatment.

The treatment of scarlet fever usually consists of a series of steps that may seem quite simple, but they have a vital significance.

Not only do they improve the person’s health, but they also eliminate the possibility of long-term injury or major complications. 

What do you remember about scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is a childhood disease caused by the bacterial group A streptococci. This bacterium is part of the bacterial family that originates from the tonsils.

Group A streptococci often produce a toxin that creates an extensive skin rash in a purple color.

It is important to emphasize that not all strep infections produce this drug and not all children are hypersensitive to it. 

For example, two siblings living in the same home can both get this bacterium, but the disease can take a different turn in each child. One child may be hypersensitive to the toxin, while the other may not.

Children suffering from this rash need special topical medication to treat the disease.

But how is the disease transmitted? It basically happens through direct contact with saliva from infected children. Saliva can be passed on via talking, coughing or sneezing.

It is also possible for the bacterium to spread via tools or toys that children have put in their mouths. Therefore, isolation is very important when treating scarlet fever. 

The development of scarlet fever

The effects of the infection come very suddenly. The glands at the base of the neck swell, which is very painful.

The following symptoms are also associated with scarlet fever:

• Rysten
• Vomiting
• Lack of appetite
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Swollen tonsils
• Apathy or general lack of interest (which means your child probably does not feel like playing).

Over the next 12-48 hours, a skin rash will appear around the groin area, armpits and neck. This rash will later spread to the rest of the body. The red marks can be seen all over the skin and they are a bit swollen.

At the same time, the tongue is covered with a white layer. The taste buds swell and become more red than usual. Later, the baby’s skin becomes more scaly.

The pain intensity will decrease on day 6 or 8. If the fever flares up again, it may be a sign of a complication that needs to be treated immediately.

After day 9, the baby’s skin will begin to peel. This starts in the face and abdomen and then it finally spreads to the hands and feet.

What you should know

Scarlet fever can unfortunately return several times during childhood as it comes from several streptococci from different strains. This means that vaccination will not be as effective as with other diseases.

Scarlet fever does not involve any complications as long as the correct medication is given. If this does not happen, it can produce consequences such as rheumatic fever, which can cause inflammation in the heart, joints and blood vessels.

If scarlet fever is not treated, it can also lead to kidney inflammation, affecting kidney function in a short time.

Vaccinations are not effective in preventing scarlet fever

Whether there is a skin rash present or not, it is absolutely necessary to consult a doctor. 

A physician can determine what type of treatment is appropriate for the patient. It is extremely important to pay attention to the composition of the prescribed medication, as well as dosage, short-, medium- and long-term effects.

How to care for a child with scarlet fever

1. Rest is fundamental. Even if your child is healthy enough to go to school again, rest is still important. It is always good for your child to feel comfortable and well taken care of. You need to prepare a diet based on white foods, nutritious soups, ice cream and natural, homemade drinks such as orange juice or lemonade.

2. Do not force your child to eat if she does not feel like it. Offer her instead of “soft” foods.

3. If you have a humidifier, then this is a perfect time to use it as it can relieve sore throat. You can also put cloths with cold or hot water around your baby’s neck and neck to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

4. Make sure your child’s nails are short so he does not harm himself if his rash itches.

5. Love and care. All people need care and love when they are sick. If you give your child this, then you will take care of her psychological health, and in return you will promote the improvement of her physical health. It is very important to spend quality time with your little patient. 

It is important to talk to your pediatrician if you have any questions. When it comes to your child’s health, always take action immediately to avoid making things worse.