National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Link to NIAID Home Page Link to NIAID Home Page Link to NIH Home Page
NIAID Home Health & Science Research Funding Research News & Events Labs at NIAID About NIAID

Scarlet Fever
 Transmission
 Symptoms
 Treatment


Scarlet Fever

Symptoms

In addition to the symptoms of strep throat, a red rash appears on the sides of your chest and abdomen. It may spread to cover most of your body. This rash appears as tiny, red pinpoints and has a rough texture like sandpaper. When pressed on, the rash loses color or turns white.

Other symptoms can include

  • Dark red lines in the folds of your skin
  • A bright strawberry-red tongue and flushed (rosy) face, while the area around your mouth remains unchanged

The skin on the tips of your fingers and toes often peels after you get better. If you have a severe case, you may have a high fever, nausea, and vomiting.


See Also

  • Group A Streptococcal Infections
  • Escarlatina (PDF, en español)
  • E-mail Icon E-mail this page
    Print Icon Print this page

    See Also

  • Group A Streptococcal Infections
  • Escarlatina (PDF, en español)