When was scarlet fever discovered

Now, in a new study, Public Health England researchers have sought to find out the cause of the biggest increase in scarlet fever cases England has seen in several decades. Scarlet fever is an illness caused by Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, or Group A Streptococcus, and gets its name from the telltale red rash that often occurs as a result of the infection. Other symptoms can include a very red, sore throat, high fever, headache, body aches, a red and bumpy tongue, and bright red skin in the creases of the underarm, elbow, and groin.

Individuals who carry Group A strep in their nose or throat can spread the bacteria through their coughs and sneezes, and by sharing drinking glasses and eating utensils. Scarlet fever is also contagious through contact with skin sores and rashes but can be treated with antibiotics. During the mids, pandemic outbreaks of scarlet fever in England caused a sharp rise in mortality.

Improvements in hygiene and the development of antibiotics have since made scarlet fever a much less common and much more treatable infectious disease. From to , England saw from 3 to 8 cases of scarlet fever per , individuals, resulting in 1, to 4, cases each year. Earlier that year, England saw a peak of 1, cases in just one week, and by the end of the year, 15, cases had been reported.

In , the rate of infection rose to more than 30 cases per , and in rose again to more than 33 cases per , Illness usually begins with a fever and sore throat. There also may be chills, vomiting, or abdominal pain. The tongue may have a whitish coating, appear swollen, or look red and bumpy. Small, flat red blotches usually appear first on the neck, underarm, or groin before spreading over the body. Later, the rash starts to feel like sandpaper. Long-term health problems are rare. They can include rheumatic fever, kidney disease, and arthritis.

Other health problems that can occur after scarlet fever include ear, skin, throat, sinus, or lung infections. Treatment with antibiotics can prevent most of these health problems.

The best way to keep from getting or spreading the bacteria that cause scarlet fever is to wash your hands often. Also avoid sharing eating utensils, plates, and glasses. Children with scarlet fever should stay home from school or daycare until they no longer have a fever and have taken antibiotics for at least 12 hours. Skip directly to site content Skip directly to page options Skip directly to A-Z link.

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