All news on the topic: Scarlet fever

There have been a growing number of cases of scarlet fever across the UK, after a surge of around 70 per cent in recent weeks with England's south east reporting the most

Scarlet fever is caused by Group A Strep bacteria, and while anyone can catch it the elderly and young are most commonly affected as recently cases have surged across England and Wales

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Following a huge spike in scarlet fever infections last winter, many are hoping the disease stays under much stricter control this year. But with a recent doubling of infections in Wales, fears of an outbreak are beginning to rise

The latest UKHSA data shows there have been 225 cases of scarlet fever in the week ending October 15. They have increased since September, but are lower than a year ago

Scarlet fever is known for causing a rash, but as cases of the bacterial illness spike in Britain people are being advised that this is not in fact the first sign to keep an eye out for

Scarlet fever is highly infectious and between September last year and this January, 37,068 cases were reported with 190 deaths - it can be treated but can also lead to complications if not dealt with properly

Clean water, good food, education, antibiotics and vaccinations have meant over the last 150 years the improvements in preventing and treating diseases spreading has been remarkable, with some eradicated completely

While scarlet fever is usually only a mild illness, treatment is still advised and you should speak to a GP if you think that you or your child may have contracted it