Scarlet Fever cases rise among Jersey nursery children

Thursday 28 July 2022

Parents and caregivers are being urged to watch out for sore throats, nausea, fever and sandpaper-like rashes in children after an uptick in cases at nurseries and other childcare facilities.

Jersey's Deputy Medical Officer of Health, Dr Ivan Muscat MBE, has sent a letter to nurseries, childcare providers and GPs.

“Scarlet fever is usually a mild illness, but it should be treated with antibiotics to minimise the risk of complications and reduce the spread to others," he advised.

“The symptoms of Scarlet Fever include a sore throat, headache, fever, nausea and vomiting. This is followed by a fine red rash which typically first appears on the chest and stomach, rapidly spreading to other parts of the body.

"On more darkly pigmented skin, the rash may be harder to spot, but it should feel like 'sandpaper'. The face can be flushed red but pale around the mouth.”

Pictured: Following flu-like symptoms, sufferers of Scarlet Fever usually experience a rash 12 to 48 hours later, which tends to start on the chest and tummy area before spreading across the body.

Anyone concerned their child may have Scarlet Fever should take them to the GP as soon as possible.

They should also keep their child a home and away from others until at least 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection.