Scarlet Fever in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Scarlet fever is an infection that can happen with strep throat. It is caused by the same bacteria that cause strep throat.

Scarlet fever and strep infections are treated with antibiotics. Treatment can prevent serious problems from strep infection. The strep infection that causes scarlet fever can be spread to others until your child no longer has a fever and until they have taken antibiotics for at least 12 hours.

The rough, red rash that occurs with scarlet fever usually fades in about a week. After the rash fades, the skin may begin to peel.

How can you care for your child at home?

• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Until your child no longer has a fever and until they have taken antibiotics for at least 12 hours, have your child avoid contact with other people, especially infants and other children. Do not send your child to school or day care. Keep your child's drinking glass and eating utensils separate. Wash these items well in hot, soapy water.
• Have your child age 8 or older gargle with warm salt water once an hour to help reduce swelling and relieve pain in the throat. Use 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) of salt mixed in 1 cup (250mL) of warm water.
• Give your child an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Do not use ibuprofen if your child is less than 6 months old unless the doctor gave you instructions to use it. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Be careful when giving your child over-the-counter cold or flu medicines and Tylenol at the same time. Many of these medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Read the labels to make sure that you are not giving your child more than the recommended dose. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
• Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 20. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a serious illness.
• If your child is younger than age 2, ask your doctor if you can give your child numbing medicines. An over-the-counter anesthetic throat spray or throat lozenges may help relieve throat pain. Do not give lozenges to children younger than age 4.
• Give your child plenty of fluids to drink. Fluids may help soothe an irritated throat. Warm fluids, such as tea or soup, or something cool, like ice pops, may help relieve throat pain.
• Make sure your child gets lots of rest.
• Keep your child away from smoke. Do not smoke or let anyone else smoke around your child or in your house.