Scarlet fever is a contagious infection that is mostly contracted by young children. The latest Health Protection Report (March 2018) showed 11,982 cases of scarlet fever have been reported since mid-September 2017, compared to an average of 4,480 for the same period over the last 5 years. It has hit its highest level in England for 50 years, yet according to the BBC, ‘experts have so far failed to find a reason for the recent increase’.

Albie, aged 2 suffered from the disease and his mother, Jodie said; “He had a rash on his tummy that felt like sandpaper and his cheeks were very red. His tongue looked very much like a strawberry and he was just not himself. Action should definitely be taken to try and reduce this disease as it’s severely unpleasant for the children”. Whilst it is treatable through antibiotics, its contagious nature, mean symptoms needs to be monitored closely and acted upon swiftly.

Doctors are encouraging the public to look out for symptoms and tell their GP straight away if there are signs of infection. These include:

• Flu- like symptoms

• High temperature of 38C or above

• Swollen neck glands

• Pink red rash

• Strawberry tongue

• Flushed cheeks

Scarlet fever was a common cause of death in the Victorian era, but had largely been in decline since the introduction of antibiotics. Dr Lamagni described the soaring number of cases of scarlet fever as "baffling", adding that no underlying causes had been identified. Fortunately our medical care has improved significantly over the last few decades and should be more than effective in reducing communicable diseases. Nevertheless it is imperative that you should see a GP if any of these symptoms are visible to reduce the amount of cases in schools and in our community.

For more information on Scarlett Fever go to www.nhs.uk/conditions/scarlet-fever