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19th July 2023
04:15pm BST
Parents have been advised to familiarise themselves with the symptoms of scarlet fever aka Strep A.
Many parents have been feeling concerned about the virus but health experts have stressed that scarlet fever can be treated with antibiotics.
The HSE has issued a warning as we head into the winter months.
"Scarlet fever is a contagious infection that mostly affects young children. It can last for around a week but it's easily treated with antibiotics. Scarlet fever is very infectious and can easily spread to other people."
Symptoms of scarlet fever include a fever, a rash, flushed cheeks, and a sore throat. Your child will also have a swollen tongue.
#ScarletFever is a contagious infection that mostly affects young children. It can last for around a week but it's easily treated with antibiotics. Scarlet fever is very infectious and can easily spread to other people. Learn more: https://t.co/o8GAzgo5uJ pic.twitter.com/6MQRf23UOs
— HSE Ireland (@HSELive) December 5, 2024
The tongue may be covered in a white coating. This coating will peel and leave the tongue swollen and red. This is known as 'strawberry tongue'.
The rash is typically found in the joint creases, as well as over the child's stomach. It can feel rough, like sandpaper.
Children who contract scarlet fever will often have a mild infection. Complications are rare, but they are still possible.
Complications include ear infections, throat abscesses, and pneumonia.
In extreme cases, children may develop kidney damage, as well as heart damage.
Luckily, these rare complications can be prevented if the child is treated promptly. Antibiotics will help prevent complications.
It typically affects children under the age of 10, but it can affect children of all ages.
It is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A streptococci (GAS).
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