It's important to be able to spot the signs of infection, so you can get early treatment and stay away from others to prevent it spreading.
The first signs of scarlet fever can be flu-like symptoms, including a high temperature, a sore throat and swollen neck glands (a large lump on the side of your neck).
A rash appears 12 to 48 hours later. It looks like small, raised bumps and starts on the chest and tummy, then spreads. The rash makes your skin feel rough, like sandpaper.
On white skin the rash looks pink or red. On brown and black skin it might be harder to see a change in colour, but you can still feel the rash and see the raised bumps.
Follow the NHS guidance on scarlet fever.
Contact a GP or NHS 111 if you think someone has scarlet fever or use the NHS 111 service or use the NHS online service to get help with identifying scarlet fever symptoms. Your GP may suggest a phone consultation as scarlet fever is easily spread.
To prevent the spread of scarlet fever:
- stay away from nursery, school or work for at least 24 hours after starting the antibiotic treatment if the illness is confirmed
- don't share cutlery, cups, beakers, towels, bedding or baths with anyone who has symptoms of scarlet fever
- wash your hands often with soap and water
- use tissues to catch the germs from cough and sneezes, and throw away used tissues in the bin as soon as you can
- follow advice given by a health care professional