Scarlet fever infections are exploding: Are our children in danger?

Scarlet fever infections are exploding: Are our children in danger?

The alarming figures surrounding scarlet fever infections in Lower Saxony not only worry the health authorities, but also excite parents. In 2023, four times more cases were registered in doctors' offices than in the previous year, meaning a total of around 40,200 affected children between the ages of one and fourteen. This emerges from a special analysis as part of the Lower Saxony DAK children and youth report. The situation is particularly dramatic in the Verden district, where scarlet fever infections have increased fivefold compared to the previous year. These developments send a clear warning: The number of infections reported in childcare facilities and schools has reached the highest number in the last five years, reports the Weser-Kurier.

A look at the symptoms and transmission routes

The typical symptoms of a scarlet fever infection include headache, sore throat, chills and high fever. Vomiting and abdominal pain can also occur, with the so-called “raspberry tongue” being particularly noticeable. The infection occurs through streptococcal bacteria and can lead to further health problems such as severe inflammation. The experts explain that scarlet fever is easily transmitted and there is a period of one to three days between infection and onset of symptoms, as of Federal Association of Doctors in the Public Health Service noted. With antibiotic treatment, there is no longer any risk of infection after about 24 hours.

Health spokesmen have pointed out that the low infection rates during the pandemic were caused by strict hygiene measures. In addition, the corona measures, such as school and daycare closures, may have contributed to children having fewer opportunities for contact. These findings highlight the importance of educating parents about diseases such as scarlet fever, especially given the significant increase in the number of infections. Parents need to be all the more vigilant if their children develop symptoms. If you have a high fever and a sore throat, you should see a doctor immediately so that the illness can be recognized in good time, according to the health authorities' recommendation.