When to worry about swollen glands with scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is linked with a throat infection and may cause tender neck glands, fever, a sore throat and a rough, sandpaper-like rash. The tongue may look unusually red. These features can overlap with other infections, so a clinician may need to assess the throat and overall illness.

The illness can spread through close contact and respiratory droplets. Call ahead if scarlet fever is suspected, particularly before taking a child into a waiting room.

Arrange a clinical assessment for suspected scarlet fever because treatment decisions depend on the diagnosis. Encourage fluids and soft foods, and use suitable pain or fever relief according to professional or label directions.

Watch whether swallowing, drinking and urination remain normal. Follow advice about staying home and completing any prescribed treatment.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing or swallowing, drooling, rapidly increasing neck swelling, a muffled voice, severe dehydration, confusion, a seizure or a child who is unusually difficult to wake. A spreading red, hot or very painful area also needs prompt review.

Ask whether a throat test is needed, when the person can return to school or work, how to reduce spread at home, and which changes mean treatment should be reviewed.