Please see below for a copy of the letter from Public Health which was sent home with all children on Tuesday 17th March 2015.

 

 

Ref Scarlet Fever                                                                                      17th March 2015

Dear Parent / Guardian,

 

We have been informed that one child who attends Oakfield has been diagnosed with suspected scarlet fever.

 

Although scarlet fever is usually a mild illness, it should be treated with antibiotics to minimise the risk of complications and reduce the spread to others.

 

The symptoms of scarlet fever include a sore throat, headache, fever, nausea and vomiting. This is followed by a fine red rash which typically first appears on the chest and stomach, rapidly spreading to other parts of the body. On more darkly-pigmented skin, the scarlet rash may be harder to detect, but it should feel like 'sandpaper'. The face can be flushed red but pale around the mouth.

 

If you think you, or your child, have scarlet fever:

• See your GP or contact NHS 111 as soon as possible

• Make sure that you/your child takes the full course of any antibiotics prescribed by the doctor.

• Stay at home, away from nursery, school or work for at least 24 hours after starting the antibiotic treatment, to avoid spreading the infection

 

If your child has an underlying condition which affects their immune system, you should contact your GP or hospital doctor to discuss whether any additional measures are needed.

 

You can find more information on scarlet fever on NHS choices: www.nhs.uk  Further advice can also be obtained from the Health Protection Team on 0345 279 9879 during office hours.

 

Yours sincerely

 

Dr R Sendorek on behalf of

Health Protection