Is scarlet fever contagious?

Spread is more likely in homes, classrooms, and other places where people share air or touch the same objects. A person may have a sore throat and fever before the rash is obvious. Not everyone exposed to the bacteria develops the same symptoms, and a rash alone cannot show who is infectious. The illness is related to the bacteria that cause strep throat, so someone with a throat infection may pass bacteria even when scarlet fever has not been recognised.

Keep the unwell person away from close contact while feverish or until a clinician advises that normal activities can resume. Cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands with soap, clean frequently touched surfaces, and avoid sharing cups, cutlery, towels, or toothbrushes. Encourage fluids and rest. If antibiotic treatment is prescribed, follow the instructions carefully; it can reduce the period of infectiousness, but the prescriber should confirm when school, nursery, or work is appropriate. Tell close contacts to seek advice if they develop symptoms.

Arrange a clinical review for fever with sore throat and a rough rash, or for worsening throat pain and swollen glands after close exposure. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, inability to swallow fluids, severe dehydration, confusion, or unusual drowsiness. See [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) and [Swollen Glands](/symptoms/swollen-glands/) for symptom information.

Ask how long the person should avoid close contact, when they may return to school or work, whether household contacts need advice, and what to do if symptoms persist after treatment. Mention medication allergies and any vulnerable people at home.