Streptococcal Disease (Streptococcal Sore Throat, Scarlet Fever)
CAUSE:
Group A Beta Hemolytic Streptococci
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:
High fever, sore throat with pain on swallowing and vomiting. Within 12 hours of onset of rash can develop. Most common in children aged 5 to 10 especially during the months of October to April.
INCUBATION PERIOD:
Time from contact to the development of signs and symptoms usually 28 to 72 hours after close contact. Incidence is highest among small children.
MODE OF TRANSMISSION:
Usually by direct or intimate contact via airborne droplets, i.e.: sneezing and coughing. Occasionally transmitted via contaminated food. Treated cases usually do not transmit after 48 hours. Untreated cases can transmit as long as 21 days.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES:
Stressing the need for bed rest and isolation from others until antibiotic treatment is effective, completing medication, hand washing and properly disposing of soiled tissues.
PERIOD OF COMMUNICABILITY:
If untreated, uncomplicated cases 10-21 days.
IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL:
Exclude those with respiratory illnesses or skin lesions from food handling. Exclude student from school for at least 24-48 hours, until antibiotic therapy begins. Student must have a note from a healthcare provider to return to school.