Hindley All Saints'

Church of England Nursery & Primary School

Transforming T.L.C. Teaching, Learning and Community through gospel values of Thankfulness, Love and Compassion.

Chapel Fields Lane, Hindley, Wigan, WN2 3QS

(01942) 255577

schooloffice@hindleyallsaints.co.uk

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  2. Latest info on Scarlet fever

Latest info on Scarlet fever

12 December 2022 (by admin)

Dear Parent/Carer

You may have heard in the news that there has been an increase in Scarlet Fever cases so thought you may want to read the latest information on this.

UK Health Security Agency North West Health Protection Team advise that 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.

Symptoms of scarlet fever:

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 spot, 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 and away from nursery, school or work for at least 24 hours after starting the antibiotic treatment, to avoid spreading the infection.

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

Potential complications:

Children who have had chickenpox recently are more likely to develop more serious infection during an outbreak of scarlet fever and so parents/guardians should remain vigilant for symptoms such as a persistent high fever, cellulitis (skin infection) and arthritis (joint pain and swelling). If you are concerned for any reason please seek medical assistance immediately. All children with chickenpox should remain off school / nursery until at least 5 days after the start of their rash AND until all their spots have crusted over.

Infection control advice:

We are following national guidance and advice on hygiene measures to help prevent spread within our school / nursery. Parents/guardians can also help with this by reminding children of

the importance of coughing / sneezing into tissues and placing these in the bin, washing hands regularly and ensuring any breaks to the skin are covered with a waterproof plaster/dressing before attending school / nursery.

Further information:

You can find more information at:

NHS Choices https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scarlet-fever/

UKHSA Scarlet Fever Frequently Asked Questions https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/scarlet-fever-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment

NHS Info https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/scarlet-fever#:~:text=Scarlet%20fever%20is%20a%20bacterial,skin%20and%20in%20the%20throat.

Yours sincerely

Mr Ward