Bangkok: Parents are being urged to exercise caution as scarlet fever continues to affect children. The Department of Medical Services has advised parents not to panic but to remain vigilant by monitoring symptoms and maintaining good hygiene practices in children, as scarlet fever cannot resolve independently and may lead to severe complications.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Dhanin Vejchapinan, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, explained that scarlet fever is caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. The current outbreak might be attributed to the resumption of regular activities following the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to an "immunity debt" within the population. Individuals who have previously contracted scarlet fever may still be susceptible, as post-infection immunity is not permanent. Critical strains causing the illness include EMM type 12 and EMM type 1, necessitating vigilant monitoring to control the outbreak.
Dr. Akkharat Jitnuyanon, Director of the Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health, noted that scarlet fever is prevalent among children aged 5-15 years and can spread easily through respiratory droplets, contact with secretions, or shared items like drinking glasses and utensils. School-aged children and those in crowded settings are particularly at risk. Symptoms include high fever, sore throat, red and swollen tonsils, pus or white patches on the tonsils, and a distinctive sandpaper-like rash. Other symptoms may include red and sunburn-like skin, pale areas around the mouth, and a red strawberry-like tongue. Some individuals might also experience headaches, nausea, vomiting, or stomachache.
Treatment involves appropriate antibiotics to prevent severe complications, such as kidney inflammation or rheumatic fever, with most patients recovering within 7-10 days. Adherence to prescribed antibiotics is crucial, as incomplete treatment can lead to serious conditions like rheumatic heart disease or kidney inflammation. Parents should continue monitoring their child's symptoms for 2-3 weeks post-treatment, particularly for signs of complications like reduced urination or atypically red urine, which may indicate kidney issues, or unusual fatigue and rapid heartbeat, which could suggest heart problems. Immediate medical attention is advised if these symptoms occur.