Scarlet Fever in Children – Signs, Symptoms, Treatment & Recovery | Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat
Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat

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🩺 Scarlet Fever in Children – A Parent’s Guide by Dr Low Han Nee

Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat | 刘医生峇株吧辖小儿科专科诊所

As a Child Specialist in Batu Pahat, I would like to share something personal. A few months ago, I diagnosed my own son with scarlet fever. Thankfully, with early treatment, he recovered well. Today, I’m sharing helpful insights for parents in Batu Pahat and beyond.

❓ What is Scarlet Fever?

Scarlet fever is a contagious infection that mainly affects young children. It is caused by a bacteria known as Group A Streptococcus (Strep A).

As a Child Doctor Near Me in Batu Pahat, I often see cases of this illness, especially during school seasons.

🔍 Signs and Symptoms of Scarlet Fever

TThe first signs resemble flu-like symptoms, such as:

High fever
Sore throat
Swollen neck glands

One to two days later, a distinctive rash appears. Other symptoms include:

Red cheeks
Redness in throat
Nausea or vomiting

Importantly, children usually do not have cough or runny nose, which helps differentiate it from common cold.

🌡 What Does the Rash Look Like?

The rash usually:

Starts 12 to 48 hours after symptoms begin
Begins on the chest and tummy, spreading to other areas
Looks like small, raised bumps
Feels like sandpaper to the touch

🧪 Is Testing Required?

As a Child Specialist in Batu Pahat, I can often diagnose scarlet fever based on symptoms and physical examination.
However, a throat swab may be done to confirm the presence of Group A Strep bacteria.

💊 Treatment for Scarlet Fever

Scarlet fever is easily treatable with antibiotics, which help to:

Speed up recovery
Prevent complications such as pneumonia
Stop the spread to others

If your child is diagnosed, it’s important to start antibiotics as prescribed by your Child Doctor in Batu Pahat.

🏫 Can My Child Go to School?

Children diagnosed with scarlet fever should stay at home until 24 hours after starting antibiotics.

Without antibiotics, scarlet fever can remain contagious for 2–3 weeks. With antibiotics, it becomes non-contagious after 24 hours.

🧼 Preventing the Spread:

Wash hands regularly
Do not share cups or utensils
Cover coughs/sneezes and dispose tissues properly

👨‍⚕️ A Note from Dr Low Han Nee

As both a parent and a pediatrician at Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat, I understand how worrying childhood illnesses can be.
If your child shows symptoms, please don’t delay in seeking consultation.