Everything you wanted to know about Scarlet Fever...

....but forgot to ask!


Scarlet fever is a disease caused by Group A Streptococcus - the same bacteria that causes strep throat, however scarlet fever presents with a rash as well.

Group A Strep

It's most common in children form 2-10 years of age. Symptoms typically manifest within 7 days of exposure. Once the fever appears, the rash pops up within the next 24 hours, covering much of the body over the next 2 days.


Symptoms include:

• Sore throat
• Rash - sandpapery, appearing on the neck and chest first
• Fever
• Abdominal pain
• Bright red color in the creases of the underarm and groin (Pastia's lines)
• Chill
• General discomfort (malaise)
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Swollen, red tongue (strawberry tongue)
• Vomiting

Disease transmission is direct contact with exhaled droplets from the infected person.

There are severe complications for an untreated person, but 24 hours of antibiotics renders the infected individual safe to be around - ie. no longer contagious.

Here's some pictures:

The Rash

Strawberry Tongue

In short - this is a very disease, but catching it quickly can save you a lot of discomfort!

So you ask... why the crash course on Scarlet Fever?!?!

Because - ONE week ago Thursday, a kid in Miles' daycare class was diagnosed with the disease! 

The center was professionally disinfected immediately.

We educated ourselves on early symptoms, treatments, risks..

The risk period has almost passed and we are still in the clear!  

Can you believe we escaped that one?!?!

Thank you, God, for your protection!

Crisis Averted!

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