A whopping 14 new cases of scarlet fever have been confirmed in Cumbria over the past week.

The illness is now spreading quickly locally, in line with a "substantial increase" reported nationally.

Of the 14 new cases, three were in Barrow, three in Carlisle, three in Allerdale and five in South Lakes.

The figures, for the week ending February 11, shows the highest weekly total recorded in Cumbria so far this year, taking the overall total in 2018 to 31.

Scarlet fever is a highly infectious disease, most common in children - particularly those under the age of 10.

Symptoms include a very high temperature and a distinctive red sandpaper-like rash.

It can usually be treated with antibiotics but in more extreme cases, can require hospital treatment.

There have now been 83 confirmed cases of scarlet fever across Cumbria this winter.

As the number continues to rise, health chiefs are urging parents to be aware of the symptoms.

Early signs include a sore throat, headache, high temperature, swollen glands in the neck and being sick.

The rash can then follow, on the face or body.

Scarlet fever is usually spread through close contact, hence it being more common among youngsters.

It is mostly seen between December and April.

Public Health England (PHE) says there has been a rise in cases of scarlet fever this year, with more than 6,000 cases confirmed across the country so far this winter.

Nick Phin, deputy director at PHE, said it is important to know the symptoms so treatment can be sought early.

"Scarlet fever is not usually a serious illness and can be treated with antibiotics to reduce the risk of complications and spread to others.

"We are monitoring the situation closely and remind parents to be aware of the symptoms of scarlet fever and to contact their GP for assessment if they think their child might have it," he said.

Scarlet fever is a notifiable disease, meaning doctors must inform PHE of all suspected cases.

More tests will then be carried out and all confirmed cases are published weekly.


What are the symptoms to look out for?

Symptoms of scarlet fever develop within a week of being infected.

Early signs include a sore throat, a headache, a high temperature (38.3C/101F or above), swollen glands in the neck and being sick.

This may be followed by a rash on the body, a red face and a white or red tongue.

It usually starts on the chest or tummy, before spreading to other areas.

It is made up of pink-red blotches that may join up.

It feels like sandpaper (this may be the most obvious sign in someone with dark skin).

It may be brightest red in body folds, such as the armpits or elbows.
Scarlet fever rash

It turns white if you press a glass on it.

Your GP will prescribe antibiotic tablets (or liquid for young children) to take for five or 10 days.

You or your child should start feeling better after a day or two but make sure you finish the whole course of treatment.

Scarlet fever usually clears up within a week, although the skin may peel for a few weeks after the other symptoms have passed.

The infection is contagious from before the symptoms appear until 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment - or up to two or three weeks later if you don't take antibiotics.

There's no evidence to suggest that getting scarlet fever during pregnancy will harm your baby.

But it can make you feel unwell, so it's best to avoid close contact with anyone who has it.

If you do get symptoms of scarlet fever, see your GP for treatment.

The antibiotics used for scarlet fever are usually safe to take during pregnancy.

Keep your child away from nursery or school for at least 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment – adults should stay off work for at least 24 hours after starting treatment.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze – throw away used tissues immediately.

Wash your hands with soap and water often, especially after using or disposing of tissues.

Avoid sharing utensils, cups and glasses, clothes, baths, bed linen, towels or toys.