Washington

Scarlet Fever in Washington

Scarlet Fever is a bacterial infection caused by *Streptococcus pyogenes*, the same bacteria responsible for strep throat. It commonly affects children, presenting with a characteristic bright red rash and fever, often following a strep throat infection. Track Scarlet Fever activity and outbreaks specific to Washington.

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What is Scarlet Fever?

Scarlet Fever was a feared and often fatal childhood disease, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries, before the discovery of antibiotics. Its incidence dramatically declined with the introduction of penicillin. However, there have been periodic resurgences of Scarlet Fever in various parts of the world in recent decades.

Symptoms

  • Rash: A bright red rash that feels like sandpaper, usually starting on the neck and chest and spreading to the rest of the body.
  • Sore Throat: Severe sore throat, often with red and swollen tonsils.
  • Fever: High fever (101°F or higher).
  • Strawberry Tongue: A white coating on the tongue that peels to reveal a red, bumpy surface.
  • Flushed Face: A flushed face with a pale area around the mouth.
  • Swollen Glands: Swollen and tender lymph nodes in the neck.

Transmission

Scarlet Fever spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted through direct contact with infected saliva or nasal secretions, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching one's mouth or nose. Close contact in crowded environments facilitates its spread.

Contagious Period: Varies by disease

Prevention

  • Hand Washing: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing and before eating.
  • Avoid Sharing: Do not share eating utensils, cups, towels, or other personal items.
  • Cover Coughs/Sneezes: Cover the mouth and nose with a tissue or the elbow when coughing or sneezing.
  • Stay Home When Sick: Keep children home from school or daycare when they are sick to prevent spreading the infection. There is no vaccine available for Scarlet Fever.

Washington Health Resources

Local health department information and state-specific prevention guidance

We're Monitoring Washington

Our AI-powered surveillance continuously monitors Scarlet Fever activity across Washington. We track data from state health departments, local hospitals, CDC reports, and 50+ global health sources to provide early warning of emerging threats.

Get instant push notifications when Scarlet Fever activity increases in Washington or your specific county.

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Washington Health Department

For official state health alerts, vaccination locations, and public health guidance specific to Washington, visit your state health department's website.

→ Washington Department of Health → Find Scarlet Fever Vaccination Near You → CDC Travel Health Notices

Protecting Yourself in Washington

Whether you live in Washington, are traveling there, or have family in the state, understanding Scarlet Fever prevention is essential. Follow these evidence-based prevention measures:

Prevention Measures

  • Hand Washing: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing and before eating.
  • Avoid Sharing: Do not share eating utensils, cups, towels, or other personal items.
  • Cover Coughs/Sneezes: Cover the mouth and nose with a tissue or the elbow when coughing or sneezing.
  • Stay Home When Sick: Keep children home from school or daycare when they are sick to prevent spreading the infection. There is no vaccine available for Scarlet Fever.

When to Seek Care

If you experience symptoms of Scarlet Fever in Washington, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes significantly.

Emergency symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Expert Resources & References

Trusted information from leading health organizations

CDC

Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

View CDC Resources →

WHO

Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization

View WHO Resources →

Research

Latest peer-reviewed research and clinical studies

View Research →

Medically Reviewed Content

Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-03

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