UK: Elevated scarlet fever activity reported in the UK in early January /update 2

Event

Health officials have reported an additional 11,896 cases of scarlet fever across the UK Dec. 21-Jan. 15, bringing the total case count to 45,375 since July 4. There were 1,249 cases reported in the week of Jan. 9-15, compared to an average of 1,099 over 2020-2021. The most affected region is the North West (4,842 cases) followed by East Midlands (4,247 cases), South East (4,046 cases), and London (3,492 cases). Health officials have also reported elevated scarlet fever activity in Wales (3,221 cases). Health authorities have urged parents to keep their children at home if they have scarlet fever until 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid disease transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of Jan. 25.

Context

Scarlet fever activity occurs year-round in England and Wales, with disease activity typically increasing in January before peaking between March and April. Health officials reported 1,600-4,700 scarlet fever cases per year between 2000 and 2013 in England and Wales. However, the annual case count during 2014 surged and has remained elevated, with 2,637-16,128 cases reported annually between 2019 and 2021, respectively. Health officials suspect this increase is due to increased awareness and disease surveillance.

Scarlet fever is a contagious disease that develops from streptococcal bacterial infection of the throat (also known as "strep throat") or, rarely, streptococcal infection of the skin. Transmission generally occurs through exposure to respiratory droplets or through sharing utensils or cups with an infected individual. Symptoms typically develop three days after exposure, but can develop up to seven days after exposure. Symptoms generally include sore throat, fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, body aches, and a characteristic red rash appearing on the chest and neck, which may spread over the body.

Advice

Practice basic health precautions. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within a week of being in affected areas.