UK scarlet fever warning as advice issued to parents over symptoms

Scarlet fever is a contagious infection that is most common in young children, and while symptoms can range from mild to severe, it is treatable with a course of antibiotics

Parents are being urged to seek medical attention for their youngsters if they display signs of scarlet fever. The highly contagious bug is typically found among young children, and while effects can vary from mild to serious, it responds well to antibiotic treatment.

Although a scarlet fever bout generally lasts just one week, it remains easily transmissible to others until 24 hours following the first antibiotic dose. Based on NHS guidance, without antibiotic intervention, the illness can continue spreading for two to three weeks from symptom onset.

Whilst modern medicines have reduced scarlet fever's severit