CHP: Increase in Scarlet Fever Activity

Dear Parents,

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is appealing to parents for heightened vigilance against scarlet fever (SF) as its activity has been increasing in the past few weeks.

According to the CHP’s surveillance data, the weekly number of SF cases increased from 37 in the week of October 22 to 61 and 66 in the two subsequent weeks. Regarding SF outbreaks in schools/institutions, as of November 11, three affecting 10 pupils/children were recorded in November.

While SF has occurred throughout the year locally, a seasonal pattern for SF in Hong Kong with higher activity was observed from May to June and from November to March in the past few years. (Based on the past epidemiological pattern, we expect that the SF activity will remain at a higher level in the coming few months. Parents have to take extra care of their children in maintaining strict personal, hand and environmental hygiene).

It usually starts with a fever and sore throat. Headache, vomiting and abdominal pain may also occur. The tongue may have a distinctive strawberry-like (red and bumpy) appearance. A sandpaper texture-like rash would commonly begin on the first or second day of onset over the upper trunk and neck which spreads to the limbs. The rash is usually more prominent in armpits, elbows and groin areas. It usually subsides after one week and is followed by skin peeling over fingertips, toes and groin areas.

SF is sometimes complicated with middle ear infection, throat abscess, chest infection, meningitis, bone or joint problems, damage to kidneys, liver and heart, and rarely toxic shock syndrome. SF can be effectively treated by appropriate antibiotics. People suspected to have SF should consult a doctor promptly.

There are no vaccines available against SF. Members of the public are advised to take heed of health advice below:

• Maintain good personal and environmental hygiene;
• Always keep hands clean and wash with liquid soap when they are dirtied by mouth and nasal discharge;
• Cover your nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly;
•  Avoid sharing personal items such as eating utensils and towels;
• Maintain good ventilation;

Children suffering from SF should refrain from attending school or child care setting until fever has subsided and they have been treated with antibiotics for at least 24 hours.

Thank you,

West Island School