The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) South West has issued information to remind people, especially parents and carers, of the symptoms of scarlet fever and chickenpox, following a rise in cases across the country.
Infection levels for both scarlet fever and chickenpox are in line with what the UKHSA expects to see around this time of year, however there has been a notable increase compared to the same period in 2021 when measures put in place during the pandemic helped to keep cases below average. These measures included social distancing, enhanced hygiene and school and nursery closures.
Dominic Mellon, Deputy Director of Health Protection at UKHSA South West said: “It’s not uncommon to see a rise in cases of scarlet fever at this time of year and we are continuing to monitor rates of infection. Scarlet fever is highly contagious but not usually serious and is easily treatable with antibiotics. It is important to take antibiotics, if prescribed by a GP, to minimise the risk of complications and spread to others.
