Hello, I'm a healthcare professional with experience in infectious diseases. Scarlet fever, also known as scarlatina, is a bacterial infection that primarily affects children. It's caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria, the same type that can cause strep throat. While it can be serious, it's also treatable with antibiotics.

Scarlet fever is characterized by a sore throat, fever, and a fine, red body rash with a sandpaper-like texture. It also commonly includes a "strawberry" tongue and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe complications, such as kidney inflammation, rheumatic fever, or even more rarely, necrotizing fasciitis, a life-threatening condition.

However, when diagnosed and treated promptly with the appropriate antibiotics, the majority of patients recover well. It's important to seek medical attention if you suspect scarlet fever to prevent complications and to ensure proper treatment.

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Scarlet fever (also known as scarlatina) is an illness that can happen in kids who also have strep throat or strep skin infections. The strep bacteria make a toxin (poison) that causes a bright red, bumpy rash. The rash spreads over most of the body and is what gives scarlet fever its name.read more >>