Scarlet fever is an infectious disease caused by a group of bacteria called group A beta-hemolytic streptococci.
The disease is caused by a toxin released by Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes) bacteria, which is the same organism that causes strep throat.
These bacteria can live in the mouth and nasal passages. For this reason, humans are the primary source of these bacteria.
These group streptococci can produce a poison called erythrogenic toxin, which can cause a bright red rash on the body.
Symptoms of scarlet fever can be listed as follows:
- Fever (38 degrees Celsius and above)
- Chills
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sore throat and difficulty swallowing
- Body and muscle aches
- Loss of appetite
- Swelling, redness, and white or yellow spots in the throat
SCARLET FEVER TREATMENT
- Scarlet fever treatment is generally carried out using antibiotics.
- Antibiotics strengthen the immune system by destroying the bacteria that cause the disease, enabling it to fight the bacteria.
- Antibiotic use must be continued for the duration prescribed by the doctor, even if complaints and symptoms disappear.
- Otherwise, the bacteria can lead to complications and prolong the duration of the disease.
- Different medications may also be recommended and prescribed by the doctor to reduce the sore throat and lower the fever.
- If the person experiences issues such as skin itching, the doctor may recommend a lotion.
News Source: 12punto
