Warning Signs: Why Scarlet Fever Could Actually Be Fatal Meningitis

Parents have been warned that what they think may be scarlet fever in their children may actually be a deadly form of meningitis.

The warning comes after 33 cases of scarlet fever were recorded in Surrey in just four weeks - more than 43% higher than the same period last year.

The illness, which mainly affects children, is characterised by a pink-red sandpapery rash, but rarely leads to further problems if treated correctly.

However, Dr Ivan Ratnayake of the Ashley Centre Surgery in Epsom, Surrey, said parents who spot the rash-like symptoms should not just dismiss them as scarlet fever.

In fact, the same symptoms could also be a sign of potentially-fatal bacterial meningitis, which carries a 10% chance of death.

Dr Ratnayake said: “The rash seen with scarlet fever can mimic that of meningitis - and it’s hard to diagnose over the phone.

"I would always encourage parents, if they spot the symptoms, to get their child seen by a doctor.

"I wouldn’t even discourage them to go to the hospital if they can’t be seen by a GP immediately - you want to get your child looked at as soon as possible.

"I would not encourage a lay person to try to tell the difference.”

Theresa Lamagni, head of streptococcal infection surveillance at Public Health England said scarlet fever levels have remained high since an increase in cases in 2014.

She said: “Increasing numbers are currently being seen in line with the usual seasonal pattern, where we typically see increasing activity over the course of the winter and spring.

"While scarlet fever is not usually a severe illness it should be treated with antibiotics to reduce the risk of further complications and to minimise the risk of spread to others.

"If you or your child develops any of the symptoms of scarlet fever you should contact your GP.

"Children or adults diagnosed with scarlet fever are advised to stay at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection to others.”

More information about scarlet fever can be found here and bacterial meningitis here.

Pic: SWNS