Cases of scarlet fever, a grade 2 infectious disease, are increasing. Scarlet fever shows symptoms similar to a cold, along with red rashes on the body. Children, in particular, are prone to group infections in kindergartens, so caution is advised.
According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency on the 19th, there have been 3,295 cases of scarlet fever this year. This is a 148% increase from 1,330 cases during the same period last year. Scarlet fever is caused by infection with Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, a type of chain-shaped bacteria, and is transmitted through droplets when coughing.
When infected with scarlet fever, individuals experience high fever of 39-40 degrees Celsius and may suffer from headaches, vomiting, abdominal pain, and pharyngitis. After 12 to 48 hours of these symptoms, red rashes appear on the body and limbs. The tongue turns bright red and becomes bumpy, resembling a strawberry. In severe cases, it can lead to otitis media, bronchopneumonia, and rheumatic fever.
In South Korea, the number of scarlet fever cases has risen consecutively over the past three years, with 505 cases in 2022, 815 in 2023, and 6,642 in 2024. Children aged 0 to 9 years account for 2,855 cases, or 87% of the total. The outbreak regions include 51% in metropolitan areas and 49% in non-metropolitan areas.
Since there is no vaccine for scarlet fever, it is important to wash hands frequently with running water. When coughing, the mouth and nose should be covered with a sleeve, tissue, or handkerchief. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, and patients should be isolated for about 24 hours to prevent transmission to others.
The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency noted, "If you have been in contact with someone who has scarlet fever and are experiencing symptoms, you should visit a medical institution," adding that, "If rheumatic fever occurs in groups at home or school, carriers should be identified and treated."