Infection rates are rising rapidly and scarlet fever is spreading faster now than at any time in half a century, it has been reported.
Britain is facing an outbreak and more than 300 new cases of the infection were reported in England last week, the Independent says.
A total of 1,265 cases have also been registered since the beginning of the year.
Last year cases were at their highest level since the 1960s and more than 14,000 people were diagnosed with the bacterial infectoons.
But recent figures show the disease is spreading – there were only 169 cases reported in the first week of January which rose to 342 last week.
Often deadly in the Victorian era, it became milder and rarer during the late 20th century. But now the disease – which causes a sore throat and fever accompanied by a distinctive rash on the chest or stomach – is on the rise again.
The steep rise is expected to continue as the high season for the infection, during March and April, approaches. Public Health England has warned parents to be vigilant and to seek prompt medical advice.
The current strain is mild and unlikely to cause lasting problems, but is highly contagious. If not treated quickly it remains infectious for many weeks.
Families and friends of patients can help prevent the infection spreading by frequently washing their hands and making sure clothes, towels, bedding and cutlery are not shared.
