North East and North Central London Health Protection Team
3rd Floor, Nobel House
17 Smith Square
London SW1P 3JR
T +44 (0)20 3837 7084
www.gov.uk/ukhsa
14th December 2022
Dear Parents
We have been informed that a number of children who attend Gearies Primary school have been diagnosed with confirmed scarlet fever. Scarlet fever should be treated with antibiotics to minimise the risk of complications and reduce the spread to others.
The symptoms of scarlet fever include sore throat, headache, fever, nausea and vomiting. This is followed by a fine red skin rash which typically first appears on the chest and stomach, rapidly spreading to other parts of the body. On more darkly-pigmented skin, the scarlet rash may be harder to spot, but it should feel like 'sandpaper'. The face can be flushed red, but pale around the mouth.
If you think you, or your child, has scarlet fever:
• See your GP or contact NHS 111 as soon as possible
• Make sure that you/your child takes the full course of any antibiotics prescribed by the doctor.
• It is also preferable that the patient has a throat swab to confirm the diagnosis.
• Stay at home, away from nursery, school or work for at least 24 hours after starting the antibiotic treatment, to avoid spreading the infection.
Complications
Children who have had chickenpox recently are more likely to develop more serious infection during an outbreak of scarlet fever. Parents of children who have recently had chickenpox should remain vigilant for symptoms such as a persistent high fever, skin infections and swollen, painful joints. If you are concerned for any reason, please seek medical assistance immediately.
If your child has an underlying condition which affects their immune system, you should contact your GP or hospital doctor to discuss whether any additional measures are needed. You can find more information in the attached FAQ sheet and further advice can also be obtained from the Health Protection Team on 020 3837 7084
North East and North Central London Health Protection Team
Email necl.team@phe.gov.uk
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