Contagious period for scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is caused by bacteria that commonly infect the throat and can pass through droplets, saliva, and close contact. A person may spread it before the rash is obvious. Fever, a sore throat, a sandpaper-like rash, and swollen glands can occur together, although symptoms vary. The illness is related to streptococcal throat infection, so a clinician may assess the throat as well as the skin.

Antibiotics prescribed for scarlet fever help treat the infection and reduce the chance of passing it to others. Follow the clinician's instructions for the full course, even if the rash or throat discomfort improves.

Keep the unwell person away from school, nursery, work, and close social contact until a clinician says returning is appropriate. Do not share cups, cutlery, towels, toothbrushes, or food. Wash hands with soap, cover coughs and sneezes, and clean frequently touched surfaces. Improve ventilation where possible, and wash bedding and clothing normally rather than shaking them indoors.

Arrange medical assessment if scarlet fever is suspected, particularly when fever and a sore throat are followed by a fine rash. Ask about appropriate antibiotic treatment and whether household contacts need advice.

Seek prompt medical advice for a child or adult with a fever and rash, worsening throat pain, difficulty swallowing, or swollen glands. Urgent care is needed for trouble breathing, inability to swallow fluids, marked drowsiness, dehydration, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Contact a clinician again if symptoms do not start improving after treatment or return after an initial improvement.

Ask whether the illness fits scarlet fever or another infection, when the person can return to school or work, how to take the prescribed medicine, and what household precautions are sensible. You can also ask whether symptoms such as [Fever](/symptoms/fever/), [Sore Throat](/symptoms/sore-throat/), or [Swollen Glands](/symptoms/swollen-glands/) need separate assessment.