Telangana Hyderabad - Rising Cases of Scarlet Fever Among Children
Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh, a pediatrician, advised parents to seek immediate medical assistance. She said the fever was not unusual in the winter, but there had been up to three instances of scarlet fever every day for the past week at the private hospital where she works, and on Tuesday, she saw roughly six children with the virus.
"It is critical to detect the signs early on and begin taking the required antibiotics right away. Scarlet fever not only affects the child's health, but it can also cause difficulties with the heart and kidneys, according to Dr. Santosh.
Dr. Aroun Mobi, a pediatrician, noted, "Scarlet fever is caused by Group A streptococcus bacteria." Good hygiene habits, such as frequent handwashing, can help prevent its spread. Fever, sore throat, a distinctive strawberry-like tongue, and a sandpaper-like rash are frequent symptoms," he told Deccan Chronicle, advising parents to seek medical assistance immediately if their children exhibit the symptoms.
Dr. usha Rani of Niloufer Hospital, who has been reporting increasing instances of late, stated that treatment has helped cure the infection.
The surge in reported instances has resulted in increasing absenteeism in schools. Dr. Santosh advised parents to keep their children at home until they were fever-free for at least 24 hours.
"Early intervention is critical; initiating antibiotics within the first 24-48 hours is extremely beneficial. This not only helps the child heal quickly, but it also reduces the spread of the virus," she suggested.
• Scarlet fever, or streptococcal throat infection, is observed in children aged five to fifteen.
• parents must seek early medical treatment.
• Doctor-prescribed medications can treat infections.
• Common symptoms include fever, sore throat,'strawberry-like tongue, and a rash that resembles sandpaper.
• When an infected individual coughs or sneezes, the infection spreads via respiratory droplets.
• It can also spread by sharing food and water.
• Regular handwashing and other good hygiene measures can help prevent the spread.