What is scarlet fever?
Scarlet fever, also known as scarlatina, is an infectious disease that causes a rash. It is usually associated with an infection by streptococci, such as strep throat. It may also be associated with wounds or burns that become infected. The rash of scarlet fever is typically a fine, “sandpaper-like” rash that consists of small, red bumps. Scarlet fever most commonly occurs in children between the ages of 2 and 10. It is spread from direct contact with a child who is infected, usually through secretions from the mouth or nose.
• Scarlet fever: A complication of infection from strep bacteria such as strep throat. • Scarlet fever: Infection with group A streptococci that is characterized by tonsillitis and pharyngitis. An erythematous rash is commonly present. Source – Diseases Database • Scarlet fever: an acute communicable disease (usually in children) characterized by fever and a red rash. Source – WordNet 2.
Scarlet fever is a bacterial illness that often presents with a distinctive rash made up of tiny pinkish-red spots that cover the whole body. It affects people who have recently had a sore throat (strep throat) or school sores (impetigo) caused by certain strains of the group A streptococcus bacteria. A toxin released by the streptococcal bacteria causes the rash of scarlet fever. Scarlet fever has also been called scarlatina in the past.
