How to prepare for a video visit about Scarlet Fever (Child) - Triage

Audience: adult

Scarlet fever is an infection that usually affects children and is caused by certain bacteria. It often starts with a sore throat, fever, and a red rash. If you are preparing for a video visit about your child's possible scarlet fever, it helps to gather information about their symptoms and health history. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about symptoms, look at the rash through the camera, and decide if further tests or treatment are needed. Telemedicine can be a helpful first step to get advice and guidance quickly. However, some cases may require an in-person exam or urgent care, especially if the child is very sick or has trouble breathing. Preparing well for the video visit can make the appointment smoother and help the provider give the best advice for your child's care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing or rapid breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child is very drowsy, hard to wake, or confused — get urgent medical attention.
• High fever (above 39°C or 102°F) that does not improve with fever reducers — contact healthcare provider or emergency services.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of symptoms and rash appearance.
• Providing advice on home care and symptom management.
• Determining if urgent in-person care is needed.
• Answering questions about scarlet fever and its treatment.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing throat swab or laboratory tests.
• Administering physical examination beyond visual assessment.
• Treating severe complications or emergencies.
• Prescribing antibiotics without in-person evaluation if local regulations require it.

What is Scarlet Fever?

Scarlet fever is an illness caused by bacteria called group A Streptococcus. It often starts with a sore throat and fever. A red rash that feels like sandpaper may appear, usually starting on the chest and spreading. Other signs can include a red tongue and swollen glands in the neck.

Preparing for the Video Visit

Before the visit, write down your child's symptoms, including when they started and how they have changed. Have a list of any medicines your child is taking. Make sure your device's camera works well so the doctor can see the rash clearly. Find a quiet, well-lit place for the visit. Be ready to describe your child's temperature, behavior, and any breathing difficulties.

What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms and medical history. They may ask you to show the rash and other physical signs through the camera. Based on this, they will advise if your child needs tests, medicines, or urgent care. They may also provide instructions for home care and signs to watch for.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has trouble breathing, severe pain, is very sleepy, or has a high fever that does not improve, you should seek emergency care immediately. Scarlet fever can sometimes lead to complications that need prompt treatment. Telemedicine cannot replace an in-person exam in these urgent situations.

Home Care Tips

If scarlet fever is diagnosed, your child may need antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. Keep your child comfortable with plenty of fluids and rest. Use fever reducers if advised. Keep your child away from others until they have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours to prevent spreading the infection.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms and when they started.
• List any medications your child is currently taking.
• Ensure your device camera and microphone work properly.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place for the video visit.
• Have a thermometer ready to report your child's temperature.
• Prepare to show the rash and any other visible symptoms on camera.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions about medications and care.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Keep your child hydrated and rested.
• Avoid close contact with others until cleared by the provider.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms do not improve or worsen.

FAQs

What causes scarlet fever in children?

Scarlet fever is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria, the same bacteria that cause strep throat. It spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Can scarlet fever be treated at home?

Yes, with proper medical advice, scarlet fever is usually treated with antibiotics at home. Supportive care like rest and fluids also helps recovery.

How soon can my child return to school after scarlet fever?

Children are usually no longer contagious after 24 hours of starting antibiotics and when they feel well enough. Follow your healthcare provider's advice on when to return to school.

Is scarlet fever serious?

Most children recover fully with treatment. However, if left untreated, scarlet fever can lead to complications, so timely medical care is important.

Can I prevent scarlet fever?

Good hygiene, like regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, helps prevent scarlet fever.

Sources

1. Scarlet Fever — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Scarlet Fever — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Scarlet Fever — Mayo Clinic.
4. Scarlet Fever: Symptoms and Treatment — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek prompt in-person evaluation.