Local Doc Warns Of Rise In Scarlet Fever
DETROIT (WWJ) - Last month, WWJ Newsradio 950 told listeners about a rise in cases of strep throat throughout metro Detroit. Now, a complication of that infection - scarlet fever, is being seen by area doctors.
Children's Hospital of Michigan pediatrician Ahdi Amer says parents should watch for a "growing" rash.
"[It] appears on the body, the entire body, and usually it spurs the area around the mouth, or around the lips and it has a very characteristic appearance that has that feeling of a sand paper type of texture," says Amer.
Dr. Amer adds that scratching is not something to ignore especially since a sore throat is sometimes not even a symptom of the infection. He says, "[It] can cause rhuematic fever if it's not treated properly. Another complication also can be a form of kidney failure."
Dr. Amer notes that if a child's skin is itchy and has a rash that keeps spreading, then it may need to be checked out. Dr. Amer says a 10-day course of antibiotics will clear up the infection, but he says people should be aware that scarlet fever is not an infection that heals on its own.
