Scarlet Fever Treatments

Treatment

Scarlet fever can be treated with an antibiotic, such as penicillin or amoxicillin. It is usually taken for about 10 days. Erythromycin or azithromycin can be used for those with penicillin allergy. It is important to take all the prescribed medication to prevent recurrence or complications. People with an active strep infection are usually contagious until the antibiotic has been taken for at least 24 hours.

In rare cases, untreated strep throat infection may cause:

Permanent damage to the heart and joints ( rheumatic fever )
Permanent damage to the kidneys ( glomerulonephritis )
Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome
Local abscess

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.