<s>[INST] What is scarlet fever? [/INST] Scarlet fever (sometimes called scarlatina) is an infectious disease caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes, or group A streptococcus (GAS).  The same bacteria can also cause impetigo.  These bacteria are commonly found on the skin or in the throat, where they can live without causing problems.  However, under some circumstances, they can also cause diseases, like scarlet fever.
 Scarlet fever is characterised by a rash, which usually accompanies a sore throat, and is sometimes confused with the measles' rash. The bacteria which cause the infection produce toxins (poisons), which cause a rash, a red and swollen tongue and flushed cheeks.
 Scarlet fever is mainly a childhood disease and is most common between the ages of two and eight years.  It was once dangerous, but antibiotic treatment means it is now much less common and much less serious, although 2-4,000 cases are diagnosed each year in England.
 It is still highly contagious.  The bacteria are carried in the saliva and mucous in the nose.  The disease is spread by sneezing, coughing, or breathing out.  It can also be caught by direct contact with the mucus or saliva of an infected person.  It takes around two to five days to develop symptoms after being infected. 
 If you think your child has scarlet fever, you should consult your GP.
 The disease tends to be most common in the winter and spring and the treatment consists of a 10-day course of antibiotics. Source: HILL VIEW SURGERY. Link: https://www.hillviewsurgery.co.uk/info.aspx?p=17. Field: Infectious Disease. Disease: Fever </s>