What it is
It is treated with antibiotics, which help recovery and lower the risk of complications and spreading it.
Children can usually go back to school or nursery 24 hours after starting antibiotics.
Common signs
- A high temperature
- A sore throat and headache
- Swollen glands in the neck
- A rash that feels like sandpaper, often starting on the chest and tummy
- A red "strawberry" tongue
- Flushed cheeks
How it is usually diagnosed
- Questions about symptoms and an examination
- Sometimes a throat swab
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- GP notes
- Throat swab results
- Prescriptions
Questions to ask your doctor
- How long should my child take antibiotics?
- When can they go back to school?
- Which signs of complications should I look out for?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A child who is struggling to breathe, very drowsy, or has a rash that does not fade with a glass: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.