Two more cases of scarlet fever

Two more cases of scarlet fever were reported this week at a private kindergarten in Żebbuġ.

The latest cases occurred at Garedon School and follow another two separate cases in two primary schools last week.

Official figures show that 49 cases of scarlet fever were reported in 2008, more than five times the number reported in the previous 10 years. However, Disease Surveillance Unit director Charmaine Gauci reassured parents there was no cause for alarm. The increase in cases was probably due to the fact that the doctors had reported the cases as soon as they were diagnosed, she said.

The rise could also be explained by the fact that the ailment could spread easily, especially among children, through close contact and saliva. In fact, the majority of patients were children.

Scarlet fever, which is very rarely fatal, usually occurs after a throat or skin infection and symptoms include a rash that shows up as tiny red bumps, a sore throat, fever and swollen glands.

Parents are encouraged to look out for symptoms because early treatment could prevent complications and early isolation could stem the spread. It is also recommended that the course of antibiotics is completed and that children are kept at home for at least five days after starting it.