Quick answer

What is scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is a bacterial illness that mainly affects children, caused by streptococcus bacteria. It causes a sore throat, high temperature and a distinctive fine pink rash that feels like sandpaper. Antibiotics are recommended — they speed recovery, reduce spread, and help prevent rare complications.

What is scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection caused by group A streptococcus — the same type of bacteria that causes strep throat. It mainly affects children and is treated with antibiotics. Although it can look alarming, most children recover quickly with treatment.

Symptoms

Scarlet fever often starts suddenly with:

  • a sore throat — sometimes severe
  • a high temperature
  • a headache, nausea or vomiting
  • a fine pink or red rash that feels like sandpaper
  • a red, bumpy tongue (“strawberry tongue”) — often after a day or two

The rash usually begins on the chest and tummy before spreading. The skin may look flushed, with paler skin around the mouth.

Why antibiotics matter

Scarlet fever is bacterial, so antibiotics are recommended. They:

  • help your child feel better sooner
  • reduce how long they are infectious
  • lower the risk of rare complications

A GP will usually diagnose scarlet fever from the symptoms and may take a throat swab. Start antibiotics as prescribed and finish the full course even if your child improves quickly.

Caring for your child at home

Alongside antibiotics:

  • encourage fluids — especially if swallowing is painful
  • offer soft foods if the throat is sore
  • use paracetamol or ibuprofen for temperature and discomfort (follow age-appropriate dosing)
  • keep them comfortable and rested

Preventing spread

Scarlet fever spreads through coughs, sneezes and close contact. Keep your child home from school or nursery for at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics and until they feel well enough. Encourage good hand hygiene in the household.

When to seek help

See a GP promptly if you suspect scarlet fever — early antibiotics are important. Seek urgent help if your child has severe breathlessness, is difficult to wake, or shows signs of dehydration or serious illness.

Common questions

What does the scarlet fever rash look like?
It is usually a fine pink or red rash that feels rough, like sandpaper. It often starts on the chest and tummy and spreads. The skin may look paler around the mouth, and the tongue can become red and bumpy.
Is scarlet fever contagious?
Yes. It spreads through coughs, sneezes and close contact. Children should stay off school or nursery for at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics and until they feel well enough.
Why are antibiotics needed for scarlet fever?
Scarlet fever is caused by bacteria, so antibiotics help you recover faster, reduce the risk of passing it to others, and lower the chance of rare complications such as rheumatic fever.
How is scarlet fever different from a viral rash?
Scarlet fever usually comes with a significant sore throat, high temperature and a sandpaper-like rash. A GP can often recognise it and may confirm with a throat swab. Viral rashes such as slapped cheek or hand, foot and mouth have different patterns.
Can adults get scarlet fever?
Yes, though it is less common. Adults with a severe sore throat and rash should see a GP for assessment and possible antibiotics.

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