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Hyderabad, Jan 13: A concerning surge in scarlet fever cases among children aged 5 to 15 years has been reported in Hyderabad, alongside an increase in other viral fevers during the ongoing winter season. Senior pediatricians have raised alarms, urging parents to seek prompt medical attention for affected children.
Scarlet fever, a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus, is treatable with antibiotics but requires early diagnosis to prevent complications. Symptoms usually manifest 2 to 5 days after exposure to the bacteria, making vigilance crucial.
“We’ve observed an uptick in children presenting with scarlet fever in recent days,” stated Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh, a developmental pediatrician based in Hyderabad. “Key symptoms include fever, red and painful tonsils with or without creamish deposits, a diffuse red sandpaper-like rash (typically appearing by day 2), and a strawberry-like tongue. Parents should consult a pediatrician immediately if these symptoms are noticed.”
The infection is highly contagious and spreads primarily through respiratory droplets from sneezing or coughing. It can also spread via shared food, water, or contact with contaminated surfaces. Given its mode of transmission, pediatricians have emphasized the importance of maintaining hygiene and avoiding shared items.
Dr. Sivaranjani further advised, “Children exhibiting symptoms should remain at home and avoid school until they are fever-free for at least 24 hours. Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics is critical to prevent complications affecting the heart or kidneys and to avoid worsening of the condition.”
To minimize the risk of infection, experts recommend frequent handwashing, sanitization of shared spaces, and staying vigilant about any early signs of the disease. Parents are encouraged to ensure timely medical intervention to safeguard their children during this critical period.
As Hyderabad continues to grapple with the seasonal surge in illnesses, pediatricians are calling for increased awareness and preventive measures to curb the spread of scarlet fever and other infections.
