<s>[INST] How is it diagnosed and what is the treatment? [/INST] Most mild cases of scarlet fever will clear up on their own, but it is still best to see your GP if you, or your child, are showing symptoms.  Having treatment for the illness speeds recovery and reduces the risk of complications.  You will also become non-contagious more quickly.
 In most cases, doctors can diagnose scarlet fever from the symptoms alone.  The diagnosis can be confirmed by taking a throat swab, which is then sent to a laboratory to identify the bacteria causing the infection.  In some cases, a throat swab is not enough and a blood test may be needed.
 The usual treatment for scarlet fever is a 10-day course of antibiotics.  The fever will usually subside within 24 hours of starting this, but it is important to take the whole course to completely clear the germs from your throat.
 If scarlet fever is not treated with antibiotics, it can be infectious for two to three weeks after the symptoms appear.  Provided all prescribed antibiotics are taken as directed, most cases will not infect other people after 24 hours of treatment.  Current guidance advises that children should not return to nursery or school and adults to work until a minimum of 24 hours after starting treatment.
 If you have a high temperature you should drink plenty of fluids.  You can also take paracetamol or ibuprofen to bring down your temperature and relieve discomfort.
 Once you have had scarlet fever you are unlikely to get it again. Source: HILL VIEW SURGERY. Link: https://www.hillviewsurgery.co.uk/info.aspx?p=23. Field: Infectious Disease. Disease: Fever </s>