Recovery after scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is caused by group A streptococcal bacteria and often occurs with a sore throat and a rough-feeling rash. As the illness settles, the rash fades and the skin may peel, particularly around fingers or toes. Peeling alone can be part of recovery; renewed fever, increasing pain or a return of illness after improvement is a different pattern and should be reviewed.

Give or take every antibiotic dose as directed and complete the course, even if the rash and throat improve. Offer regular drinks, soft foods and rest. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on suitable pain or fever medicine for the person's age, health conditions and other treatments. Do not give aspirin to a child unless specifically prescribed.

Stay away from school, nursery or work until at least 24 hours after the first antibiotic dose. Wash hands with soap and water, cover coughs and sneezes, dispose of used tissues, and avoid sharing cups, cutlery, towels or bedding. Wash frequently handled items and encourage the recovering person not to scratch peeling skin.

Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, inability to swallow saliva, marked drowsiness, a stiff neck, severe dehydration, a rapidly worsening condition or a rash that does not fade when pressed. Arrange prompt review if fever persists or returns, throat or neck swelling increases, or the person becomes unwell again after seeming to recover. Dark urine, reduced urine, puffiness, painful swollen joints or chest symptoms can accompany complications after streptococcal infection and need assessment.

Ask what to do about a missed or vomited antibiotic dose, when normal activities can restart, and whether persistent throat pain or peeling needs treatment. Tell the clinician if anyone in the household is pregnant, has a weakened immune system, or has developed a similar rash or sore throat, so they can give contact-specific advice.