Red flags & when to go in person for Scarlet Fever (Child) - Triage

Audience: adult

Scarlet fever is an infection caused by bacteria that often affects children. It usually starts with a sore throat, fever, and a red rash that feels like sandpaper. While many children recover well with proper care, some cases need medical attention in person. This guide helps adults recognize warning signs that mean a child should see a healthcare provider face-to-face. It also explains what telemedicine can and cannot do for scarlet fever, how to prepare for a tele-visit, and what steps to take afterward. Remember, this information is for education only and does not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Inability to swallow saliva or drooling — urgent in-person evaluation needed.
• High fever lasting more than 48 hours despite treatment — see a healthcare provider in person.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and triage.
• Providing general advice on care and symptom management.
• Prescribing antibiotics when appropriate and safe to do so remotely.
• Monitoring mild symptoms and advising on warning signs.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical throat examination or swab tests.
• Diagnosing complications or severe infections.
• Managing emergency situations requiring immediate intervention.
• Evaluating dehydration or severe illness signs physically.

What is Scarlet Fever?

Scarlet fever is caused by bacteria called group A Streptococcus. It often follows a sore throat or strep throat infection. Symptoms include a red rash that feels rough, a high fever, sore throat, and sometimes a "strawberry" tongue. It mostly affects children aged 5 to 15.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

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Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

Some signs mean your child needs urgent medical evaluation in person:

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine can be useful for:

However, telemedicine cannot perform physical exams or throat swabs, which may be needed to confirm diagnosis.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

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After the Telemedicine Visit

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How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Know the exact symptoms and when they started.
• Have a thermometer ready to measure your child's temperature.
• Prepare to describe any medications your child is taking.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place with good internet for the video call.
• Be ready to show the rash or throat area on camera if possible.

After your tele-visit

• Follow all treatment instructions given by the healthcare provider.
• Complete the full course of any prescribed antibiotics.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Keep your child well hydrated and rested.
• Seek in-person care 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 respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.

Can scarlet fever be treated at home?

Mild cases of scarlet fever can often be managed at home with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider, rest, and fluids. However, close monitoring is important to catch any complications early.

When should I take my child to the emergency room?

If your child has trouble breathing, cannot swallow saliva, shows signs of dehydration, has a high fever not responding to treatment, or appears very drowsy or confused, seek emergency care immediately.

Is scarlet fever contagious?

Yes, scarlet fever is contagious and spreads through close contact with an infected person's respiratory droplets. Good hygiene and avoiding close contact can help prevent spread.

How long does scarlet fever last?

With proper antibiotic treatment, symptoms usually improve within 2 to 5 days. Without treatment, the illness can last longer and may lead to complications.

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 — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you notice any red flags or if your child's condition worsens, seek medical attention promptly in person.