We have received this information this morning from Shropshire Council which are passing on to you:
Increased incidence of scarlet fever
There has been a recent national increase in notifications of scarlet fever to United Kingdom
Health Security Agency (UKHSA), above seasonal expected levels. We would like to
take this opportunity to remind you of the signs, symptoms and the actions to be taken if
you become aware of an outbreak at your school or nursery.
Signs and symptoms of scarlet fever:
Scarlet fever is a common childhood infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, or
group A streptococcus (GAS). The early symptoms of scarlet fever include sore throat,
headache, fever, nausea and vomiting. After 12 to 48 hours the characteristic red,
pinhead rash develops, typically first appearing on the chest and stomach, then rapidly
spreading to other parts of the body, and giving the skin a sandpaper-like texture. The
scarlet rash may be harder to spot on darker skin, although the ‘sandpaper’ feel should
be present. Patients typically have flushed cheeks and pallor around the mouth. This
may be accompanied by a ‘strawberry tongue’. As the child improves peeling of the skin
can occur.
Infection control advice:
In schools and nurseries, it is recognised that infections can be spread through direct
physical contact between children and staff and through shared contact with surfaces
such as tabletops, taps, toys and handles. During periods of high incidence of scarlet
fever there may also be an increase in outbreaks in schools, nurseries and other
childcare settings. As per national Guidance on Infection Control in Schools and other
Child Care Settings, children and adults with suspected scarlet fever should not attend
nursery / school / work for 24 hours after the commencement of appropriate antibiotic
treatment. Good hygiene practice such as hand washing remains the most important
step in preventing and controlling spread of infection.