Scarlet fever is a growing health problem in the UK

Rashes have attacked many children in the country

Knowing the symptoms of scarlet fever is important for early treatment

One of the highly transmittable infections in the world today, it oftentimes attacks children. In rare cases, however, the ailment may also affect adults. Major symptoms include the victim having a fever and a huge red rash appearing on the body.

Hundreds of Scarlet Fever Cases

In a report by the Daily Mirror, in recent weeks, hundreds of scarlet fever cases have been recorded across England and Wales. The number of new infections in a week exceeded that of those reported six weeks ago.

Other Symptoms

Aside from fever and a huge rash that begins on the chest or tummy, other symptoms include those similar to flu. Neck glands may also swell, and a white coating may appear on the tongue.

In some cases, there may be some inflammation on the tongue. Flushed cheeks have also been listed as among the symptoms of the ailment.

The National Health Service reveals that the initial signs of the ailment are oftentimes similar to flu. This includes having a high temperature of around 38 degrees Celsius or more.

The victim may also suffer from a sore throat, and the neck glands may become inflamed. Swollen neck glands usually result in a big lump on the side of the neck.

The NHS also said that a rash follows a couple of days after. Scarlet fever rash feels like sandpaper and normally begins to appear on the stomach and chest.

The rash appears red or pink for those who have fair or light skin but can be a bit difficult to see on those who have dark skins. Individuals who are dark-skinned, though, may still feel the rash.

While the rash may not affect the face, the cheeks will look flushed. A white coating may also appear on the tongue, which then peels off, leaving the tongue red and swollen. This is oftentimes referred by medical professionals as a strawberry tongue.