Emergency advice

How to help someone with scarlet fever:

1. Seek medical advice straight away if your baby has a headache, high temperature, and sore throat.

What is scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is an infection that causes a blotchy, pink-red rash that sometimes feels like sandpaper. It’s most common in young children but can affect people of any age. It’s not usually serious and can be treated with antibiotics from your GP. 

Signs and symptoms

Look for:

  • a sore throat
  • headache
  • a high temperature
  • swollen neck glands.

After the fever develops they may have:

  • a rash on the body
  • a red face
  • a white or red tongue.

What to do

  1. If your baby develops any of the above symptoms seek medical advice straight away.

Related first aid advice

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Measles

Measles is a highly infectious viral disease which can sometimes lead to serious complications. Find out what to look for and what to do.

Slapped cheek

Slapped cheek is a viral infection that is common in children but usually goes away within three weeks without treatment. Find out what to look for and what to do.

St John Ambulance volunteers providing support