The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an alert over an infection that “spreads easily” and can “become serious if left untreated”. In an update on X, formerly Twitter, on Wednesday the government health body urged anybody with symptoms to contact their GP online or by telephone in the first instance.
The post on X reads: “While usually mild, #ScarletFever can become serious if not treated. It mainly affects young children but spreads easily, so if you or your child have symptoms, contact your GP online or by phone first.”
Text on a graphic included within the update further explains that scarlet fever is a “contagious infection that mostly affects children, and is easily treated with antibiotics”. It adds that you should call your GP practice if you or your child experience a bumpy rash, fever, sore throat, swollen tonsils, and/or a “strawberry” tongue.
The so-called strawberry tongue is when a white coating appears before peeling, leaving the tongue red and swollen, and covered in little bumps.
If you have scarlet fever you’ll be prescribed antibiotics to help you recover, reduce the chance of a more serious illness – such as pneumonia, and reduce the chances of you passing your infection to someone else.
Further guidance on the NHS website explains that you should get back in touch with the GP if you or your child do not get better after a week of initially seeking medical advice. You should also see a GP if you have scarlet fever and chickenpox at the same time; are ill again weeks after the scarlet fever appears to have got better; or are feeling unwell and have been in contact with someone who has scarlet fever.
