Health officials have warned parents to look out for any signs of scarlet fever in their children after a rise in the number of cases reached a level not seen since the 1980s.
There have been more than 15,500 cases of scarlet fever recorded in England between January and March this year, double the figure for last year and the highest number reported since 1982, according to Public Health England (PHE).
Scarlet fever is highly contagious but it can be treated with antibiotics. It is most common in younger children and is not usually serious if treated.
Signs and symptoms
The first signs of scarlet fever can be flu-like symptoms, including a high temperature of 38C or above and swollen neck glands. A rash, which looks like sunburn and feels like sandpaper, usually appears a few days later.
Those with symptoms should contact their GP, as early treatment with antibiotics can help reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia and the spread of the infection.
Children or adults diagnosed with scarlet fever are advised to stay at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment.
‘Numbers not seen since 1982’
There were 1,624 cases in the most recent week, up to April 1, with a spike of 2,105 cases the week before nationally.
In Yorkshire and Humber, 191 cases of scarlet fever were reported that week, compared to 91 in the same week a year go.
Nick Phin, deputy director of National Infection Service at PHE, said: “While it is not uncommon to see a rise in cases of scarlet fever at this time of year, the numbers we have seen this year have not been seen since 1982 when PHE took over responsibility for collecting data on notifiable diseases.
Increase since last season
Dr Renu Bindra, of Public Health England Yorkshire and Humber, said: “Scarlet fever is not usually a serious illness and can be treated with antibiotics to reduce the risk of complications and spread to others.
“We are monitoring the situation closely and remind parents to be aware of the symptoms of scarlet fever and to contact their GP for assessment if they think their child might have it.
“Whilst there has been a notable increase in scarlet fever cases when compared to last season, greater awareness and improved reporting practices may have contributed to this increase.”
The original source of this article is from our sister site Yorkshire Evening Post
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