Scarlet Fever
Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at 3:59PM Dear Parent/Guardian
Re: Scarlet fever
You may be aware that there have been cases of suspected Scarlet fever associated with the nursery your child attends. Scarlet fever is caused by a bacterial infection (Streptococcus A) and can be passed on through person to person contact; it is treated with antibiotics.
Whilst Scarlet fever can lead to complications, most cases are mild.
How to recognise Scarlet Fever:
The typical features are:
A fine rash over the body, which may feel like sandpaper to touch
Flushed cheeks
Swollen, red tonsils, which may have white patches on them
Fever
Pain on swallowing
Headache
Vomiting
Sore glands in the jaw and neck
What to do if you suspect your child has Scarlet fever:
Contact your GP and let them know you have received this letter. If your child is diagnosed as having Scarlet Fever, then they should not attend school until 5 days after the start of treatment.
GPs in your area are being notified of the cases of Scarlet fever in the area.
Further information is available on the web sites below.
Yours sincerely
Dr Mark Evans MD MRCP
Consultant Communicable Disease Control
Covering AGW Health Protection Unit Director
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