 Infectious illness caused by a group A streptococcus (GAS) bacterium that affects the lower respiratory system  Develops from strep throat  Also known as "scarlatina"

 Agent: Streptococcus pyogenes  Gram staining: positive (+)  Morphology: chained cocci (circles)  Endospores: none  Toxins › Streptolysin O › Streptolysin S › Streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin A (and C)  aerobic  non-motile

 Outbreak: › Most recent was on › Lasted a period of 42 weeks › Reported almost 400 cases by the Health Protection Agency  Most commonly seen on: › 5-12 y/o children › late winter › early summer

 Direct contact with mucus from nose  Fluid from nose  Infected saliva

 Begins with a rash that shows red bumps  The rash lasts about 2-7 days  After the rash is gone the skin on the tip of the fingers and toes peel.  A flush face with a pale area around the face.  A red and sore throat that can have white or yellow patches.  Fevers of 101 degrees or higher.  Swollen glands in the neck.

 Check for the rash  Swab the back of the throat  Check the tongue and tonsils

 Use of antibiotics such as: › Penicillin › Erythromycin › Ibuprofen for symptom relief  Avoid the use aspirin in children younger than 16

 Wash your hands often and  Avoid sharing › eating utensils › Linens › Towels › other personal items.  There is no vaccine to prevent strep throat or scarlet fever.  Children with scarlet fever or strep throat should stay home at least for 24 hours after starting antibiotics.

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