How To Treat Scarlet Fever

Any child with a sore throat and a rash should be diagnosed by a physician as soon as possible. The doctor can do a throat swab and determine very quickly if the condition is caused by the streptococcus bacterium, which causes strep throat and scarlet fever. Even if the child has a very mild case, treatment will eliminate the chance the severe complications of scarlet fever will occur. These complications can be life-threatening. Rheumatic fever may develop, which affects the heart, and possibly the joints, brain, or skin. Kidney disease, ear infections, throat abscesses, arthritis, and pneumonia are also possible.