Patients with scarlet fever may have all of the symptoms associated with strep throat, plus a fine, reddish rash. The rash commonly appears on the neck, chest, armpits, elbows, groin, and inner surfaces of the thighs. During recovery from scarlet fever, the skin may slough off the fingers and toes. A streptococcal bacteria. Strep throat and scarlet fever can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.
Untreated individuals can transmit the bacteria for several weeks.
With adequate treatment, the contagious period is reduced to 48 hours or less. Persons infected with strep throat may return to school or work after the second day of a 10-day course of antibiotic therapy. Avoid close contact with infected persons until they have completed at least 2 days of a 10-day course of antibiotic therapy.