How do you get scarlet fever? In addition to general symptoms, there are also physical signs

Scarlet fever is a condition caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes and greatly affects general health.

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What is scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is also known as group A Streptococcus. This bacteria is also responsible for other conditions such as strep throat. A distinctive feature of scarlet fever is the red rash that appears on the body, hence its name.

How do you get scarlet fever?

Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria are highly contagious and can be passed from one person to another in several ways:

1. Bacteria live in the nose and throat and can be spread when infected people talk, cough or sneeze, creating respiratory droplets that contain bacteria.

2. Bacteria can also be transmitted through direct contact with infected persons or contaminated surfaces. Rarely, bacteria can also be spread through food that is not handled properly.

It usually takes two to five days after exposure to the bacteria for a person to develop scarlet fever or strep throat.

Symptoms of scarlet fever

Scarlet fever begins with a fever and sore throat, followed by the appearance of a characteristic red rash on the skin. Specific symptoms include:

– Fever or chills

– Sore throat and pain when swallowing

– Headaches or body aches

– Abdominal pains

– Nausea or vomiting

In addition to general symptoms, there are physical signs specific to scarlet fever, such as:

– Tongue covered with a white film at the beginning of the disease

– “Strawberry” tongue (red and swollen)

– Very red and inflamed throat

– Red and swollen tonsils with white spots or streaks of pus

– Small red spots on the roof of the mouth

– Swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck

The scarlet fever rash is a hallmark of the disease. It appears as a red rash that feels like sandpaper and can appear on the neck, underarms and groin area. Over time, the rash spreads over the whole body and may be accompanied by peeling skin on the hands, feet and groin area.

Treatment and prevention

Treatment of scarlet fever involves, in most cases, the administration of antibiotics to fight the bacterial infection. It is important that infected people stay at home until they no longer have a fever and after following the treatment prescribed by the specialist doctor.

To prevent the spread of scarlet fever and other group A strep infections, proper hygiene plays a crucial role. Washing your hands frequently, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and avoiding close contact with infected people are effective preventative measures.

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Understanding the symptoms, mode of transmission, and methods of treatment and prevention is crucial to controlling the spread of this disease and protecting our health and those around us.

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