Two cases of scarlet fever confirmed at Peters Township High School

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Pa. — Two cases of scarlet fever at Peters Township High School were confirmed Tuesday, school officials said in a letter sent to parents.

Scarlet fever is caused by a bacteria called group A streptococcus, the same bacteria responsible for strep throat.

Scarlet fever, which usually occurs in children under the age of 18, causes a rash that sometimes also occurs in people who have strep throat.

The illness can be spread to others if someone touches his or her mouth, nose or eyes after touching something that has an infected person’s mouth or nasal fluids on it. Health officials said the best way to keep from getting sick is for people to wash their hands often and avoid touching their mouth, nose or eyes.

Early symptoms of scarlet fever include:

• A rash that first appears as tiny red bumps on the chest and abdomen and may then spread all over the body.
• A flushed face with a pale area around the lips.
• A fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

Additional information about scarlet fever from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can be found by

CLICKING HERE

.

Cox Media Group