No, Scarlatina (or Scarlet Fever) is not the latest fashionable name in the playground. It is an infectious disease which in the 19th century was one of the main causes of infant mortality.
But don’t panic, with the development of antibiotics it has become relatively benign, although it should not be taken lightly.
Hello, this is Dr Joy!
Today we are talking about scarlet fever
Vamos!!!
What is scarlet fever?
Scarlatina is a bacterial infection caused by bacteria of the streptococcus family. Symptoms usually include
- a sore throat
- a red, even rash, which may look like a sunburn rash
- a high fever (usually over 38.3°C)
But also
- swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- white and then bright red tongue, with raised papillae and whitish edges
- headaches, nausea, vomiting
- abdominal pain, aches and pains, fatigue
The symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the infection. They may appear 1 to 2 days after infection and may last up to 2 weeks.
People with scarlet fever can be contagious for several weeks after the onset of symptoms. If antibiotic treatment is taken, the contagiousness disappears after 48 hours.
Who is at risk of getting scarlet fever?
It is usually spread through the air, when the infected person coughs or sneezes, or by contact with objects contaminated by the infected person’s secretions.
It mainly affects children between the ages of 5 and 10 and is rare in adults. People with weakened immune systems are also more likely to be affected by scarlet fever, including people with chronic diseases such as diabetes or immune system disorders.
There is no evidence that, if contracted during pregnancy, scarlatina poses a health risk to the baby but it is best to contact a doctor if you come into contact with infected people.
Scarlet fever treatment
Antibiotics (penicillin V or amoxicillin) to clear the bacterial infection are recommended for scarlet fever.
Pain and fever are treated with painkillers.
It is important to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, and to rest to help the body fight the infection.
Generally, a person who has had scarlatina develops immunity that protects against future infections. However, since there are different types of streptococcal bacteria that can cause the disease, and a previous infection does not protect against all types of scarlet fever, it is possible to get it more than once, but this is quite rare.
Now you know everything!
Good afternoon !
Beijinhos.
This information is not a substitute for medical advice.
You must seek the advice of your doctor or another qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health condition.
source:
Améli : https://www.ameli.fr/assure/sante/themes/scarlatine/definition-symptomes-modes-transmission
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