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

Audience: pediatric

Scarlet fever is an infection that usually affects children and is caused by bacteria called group A Streptococcus. It often starts with a sore throat and fever, followed by a red rash that feels like sandpaper. If your child has symptoms that might be scarlet fever, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help assess their condition. During the visit, the provider will ask about symptoms, look at the rash and throat, and decide if further tests or treatment are needed. Preparing for the video visit by having your child's symptoms and medical history ready can make the appointment smoother. Remember, while telemedicine can help guide care, some situations require in-person evaluation. If your child has trouble breathing, severe pain, or looks very ill, seek emergency care immediately.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe throat pain making swallowing difficult — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• High fever (above 39°C or 102°F) that does not improve with medication — seek prompt medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of symptoms and rash appearance.
• Providing guidance on symptom management and home care.
• Deciding if further testing or in-person evaluation is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing throat swab tests or laboratory diagnostics.
• Administering physical examinations requiring touch.
• Managing severe or emergency symptoms needing immediate in-person care.

What is Scarlet Fever?

Scarlet fever is an illness caused by bacteria called group A Streptococcus. It mainly affects children and often starts with a sore throat and fever. After a day or two, a red rash may appear, usually feeling rough like sandpaper. Other symptoms can include a red tongue, headache, and swollen glands.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before the video visit, gather information about your child's symptoms, such as when they started, how severe they are, and any medications given. Have a list of any allergies or medical conditions ready. Make sure your device is charged and connected to a stable internet connection. Find a quiet, well-lit area where your child can be seen clearly during the visit.

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 or your child's throat on camera. Based on this, they might recommend tests, prescribe antibiotics, or suggest home care steps. If the provider thinks your child needs to be seen in person, they will guide you on the next steps.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If your child has difficulty breathing, severe pain, is very drowsy or unresponsive, or has a high fever that does not come down with medication, seek emergency medical care immediately. These signs require urgent in-person evaluation.

After the Video Visit

Follow the healthcare provider's instructions carefully. If antibiotics are prescribed, make sure your child completes the full course. Monitor your child's symptoms and contact your provider if they worsen or new symptoms develop. Keep your child home from school or daycare until they are no longer contagious, as advised.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start date and progression of your child's symptoms.
• Prepare a list of current medications and allergies.
• Ensure your device has a working camera and microphone.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the video visit.
• Have a flashlight or phone light ready to help show the throat or rash if needed.
• Have a thermometer available to report your child's temperature.

After your tele-visit

• Administer prescribed medications exactly as directed.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or new signs.
• Keep your child hydrated and rested.
• Follow advice on when your child can return to school or daycare.
• Schedule follow-up visits if recommended by the healthcare provider.

FAQs

What causes scarlet fever in children?

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

Can scarlet fever be treated through a video visit?

A video visit can help healthcare providers assess symptoms and decide if treatment like antibiotics is needed. However, some cases may require in-person testing or care.

How long is my child contagious with scarlet fever?

Children with scarlet fever are usually contagious until they have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours. It's important to keep them home during this time to prevent spreading the infection.

What home care can I provide for my child?

Ensure your child rests, drinks plenty of fluids, and takes fever-reducing medications as advised. Keep their throat moist with soothing foods or drinks.

When should I seek emergency care during a video visit?

Seek emergency care if your child has trouble breathing, severe pain, is very sleepy or unresponsive, or has a very high fever that does not improve with medication.

Sources

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

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine can help guide care but does not replace in-person evaluation when needed. If your child has severe or emergency symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.