Parents in England have been warned to be on their guard, following news that the current number of scarlet fever cases in the country has hit a near-50-year high.

 

Public Health England (PHE) revealed that there were a staggering 6,157 cases of the condition between September 2015 and March 2016, with figures set to spike once more between late March and mid-April. The worst hit areas so far are Yorkshire, Humber, London, and the East and West Midlands

 

With a reported total of 17,586 cases of scarlet fever arising last year alone, experts have urged parents to know the signs and symptoms, and get in touch with a doctor as soon as possible if they are worried.

 

Typical symptoms of the illness include:

  • Red, sore throat
  • Fever
  • Red, coarse rash
  • White coating of the tongue or throat
  • Headache
  • Body ache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain

 

Sharing this important health update with the country, Dr Theresa Lamagni of PHE said: “Individuals who think they or their child may have scarlet fever should seek advice from their GP without delay, as prompt antibiotic treatment is needed.”

 

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