Is scarlet fever a serious disease?

While scarlet fever is usually a mild illness that resolves within a few weeks, it can sometimes lead to complications. These complications can include:

- A widespread infection (septicemia), which can lead to multiorgan failure and shock.

- A throat infection (tonsillitis), which can cause severe swelling, difficulty breathing, and pain.

- Ear infection (otitis media), which can cause pain, hearing loss, and balance problems.

- Kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis), which can lead to persistent fluid retention, high blood pressure, and kidney failure.

- Pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs.

These complications are rare, but they can be more severe in young children and people with weakened immune systems. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you or your child develops scarlet fever.