Scarlet Fever

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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Scarlet fever is an infection caused by bacteria. This bacteria makes a toxin (poison) that can cause a red rash on the skin. Scarlet fever is most common in children between 5 and 15 years of age.

WHILE YOU ARE HERE:

Informed consent

is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.

Stay with your child for comfort and support

as often as possible while he or she is in the hospital. Ask another family member or someone close to the family to stay with your child when you cannot be there. Bring items from home that will comfort your child, such as a favorite blanket or toy.

Isolation safety measures

may be used if your child has an infection that can be passed from person to person. Healthcare providers and visitors may need to wear gloves, a face mask, or a gown. Visitors should wash their hands before leaving to keep from spreading germs.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Penicillin VK
• levofloxacin
• Bicillin L-A
• Bicillin C-R
• Pfizerpen

View more treatment options

Medicines:

• Antibiotics are given to fight a bacterial infection.
• Ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be given for pain or to lower a fever.

Tests:

• Blood tests may be used to give healthcare providers information about your child's overall health.
• A throat culture is done to check for scarlet fever. Healthcare providers will swab the back of your child's throat with a cotton swab. The swab is sent to a lab for tests. Throat culture results will help healthcare providers choose what medicine is best for your child.

RISKS:

Left untreated, scarlet fever may cause a throat abscess, swelling of the sinuses, or a middle ear infection. Your child may also develop pneumonia, heart or kidney disease, or meningitis (swelling of the coverings of the brain and spinal cord).

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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