Scarlet fever

Cards (36)

  • What is another name for Scarlet Fever?
    Scarlatina
  • What bacterium causes Scarlet Fever?
    Streptococcus pyogenes
  • How is Scarlet Fever transmitted?
    Direct contact or airborne droplets
  • What is the incubation period for Scarlet Fever?
    1. 3 days
  • How long is a person infectious after symptoms onset?
    1. 3 weeks unless treated
  • How long does Scarlet Fever usually last?
    About 7 days
  • Is it common to catch Scarlet Fever more than once?
    Uncommon, but other strep infections possible
  • What age group is most commonly affected by Scarlet Fever?
    1. 8 year olds
  • What has been observed about Scarlet Fever cases since 2013/14?
    Increase in cases
  • What are the prodromal symptoms of Scarlet Fever?
    Fever, sore throat, swollen neck glands
  • Where does the rash of Scarlet Fever start?
    Chest and abdomen
  • How does the rash spread in Scarlet Fever?
    Spreads to the rest of the body
  • What does the rash feel like?
    Rough like sandpaper
  • What color is the rash typically?
    Red-pink/brown
  • What happens to the skin after the rash resolves?
    Skin may peel
  • What appears on the tongue during Scarlet Fever?
    White coating
  • What is "strawberry tongue"?
    Red, swollen tongue with small bumps
  • Are serious complications from Scarlet Fever common?
    Rare
  • What are some local spread complications of Scarlet Fever?
    Otitis media, throat infection, abscess
  • What are some immune-mediated complications of Scarlet Fever?
    Acute rheumatic fever, glomerulonephritis
  • What are invasive Group A streptococcal infections?
    Life-threatening infections affecting many organs
  • What is the mortality risk associated with invasive Group A streptococcal infections?
    15-25%
  • What should be done if red flag symptoms appear?
    Refer the patient
  • What should you do if you suspect Scarlet Fever?
    Contact GP for a telephone appointment
  • Why is Scarlet Fever considered a notifiable disease?
    To contain the spread of disease
  • What tests are arranged for Scarlet Fever?
    Throat swab and blood tests
  • What medications can be used for fever and aches?
    Paracetamol and ibuprofen
  • What is used to relieve itching in Scarlet Fever?
    Aqueous calamine cream or antihistamines
  • What is the purpose of antibiotics in Scarlet Fever management?
    Reduce illness duration and complications
  • What is the first-line antibiotic for Scarlet Fever?
    Phenoxymethylpenicillin
  • What should be given to penicillin-allergic patients?
    Azithromycin or clarithromycin
  • What practical measures can help avoid spreading Scarlet Fever?
    Wash hands often with soap and water
  • What should be done with used tissues?
    Throw them in the bin
  • What dietary recommendations are there for Scarlet Fever patients?
    Eat soft foods and stay hydrated
  • How long should a person stay away from school after starting antibiotics?
    24 hours after first dose
  • Who should be avoided during Scarlet Fever?
    Immunocompromised, pregnant, or infants