Does antibiotic treatment treat scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever often causes a sore throat, fever, and a fine rough rash that may begin on the chest or tummy before spreading. It is linked to infection with group A Streptococcus. A clinician may assess the throat and rash and decide whether testing is needed. When scarlet fever is diagnosed, antibiotics help treat the infection and can reduce infectiousness. The rash can take time to fade, and fluids, rest, and suitable fever relief may make recovery more comfortable.

Arrange prompt medical advice for a child with fever, sore throat, and a rough rash, particularly if swallowing is painful. Give prescribed medicine exactly as directed and complete the course unless the clinician changes it. Encourage fluids and handwashing, avoid sharing cups or utensils, and keep the child away from school or nursery until the treating clinician says it is appropriate to return. Check with a pharmacist before giving any non-prescribed medicine.

Get urgent help if the child has trouble breathing or swallowing, drools because swallowing is difficult, becomes very drowsy, develops a rapidly spreading or blistering rash, or shows signs of dehydration such as very little urine. A worsening child needs reassessment even after antibiotics have started.

Ask how the diagnosis was made, when the child can return to school, which fever medicines are suitable, and what changes would mean the child needs another examination.