skarlátra

Scarlet fever, known in Hungarian as skarlát or skarlátra, is a bacterial illness primarily affecting children. It is caused by the bacterium *Streptococcus pyogenes*, the same bacteria that causes strep throat. The infection is characterized by a distinctive red rash that feels like sandpaper and often starts on the neck and chest before spreading throughout the body. A sore throat, fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck are also common symptoms. A notable feature of scarlet fever is a "strawberry tongue," where the tongue becomes red and bumpy.

Transmission of scarlet fever occurs through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Close contact with an infected individual, such as sharing food or drinks, can also lead to transmission. The incubation period, the time between exposure and symptom onset, is typically between two to five days.

Diagnosis is usually made based on the characteristic rash and symptoms, often confirmed by a throat swab to detect the presence of *Streptococcus pyogenes*. Scarlet fever is treated with antibiotics, usually penicillin or amoxicillin. Prompt treatment is important to prevent complications, which can include rheumatic fever, a serious inflammatory condition affecting the heart, joints, brain, and skin, and kidney inflammation. With appropriate antibiotic treatment, most individuals recover fully within a week or two, and the rash fades. Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing, can help prevent the spread of the illness.