A young child in Queensland has been diagnosed with a mysterious strain of Scarlet fever directly linked to the epidemic in the UK, setting off alarm bells among infectious disease experts in Australia. Currently, Scarlet fever – which is caused by the Group A Streptococcus bacteria – is not a notifiable disease in Australia. In the video above: Measles immunity concerns But in light of its re-emergence abroad, this status needs to change, in order that a potential outbreak can be managed, says Professor Mark Walker at the University of Queensland. While Scarlet fever is treatable with antibiotics, the illness can still make children very sick. Symptoms Symptoms include headaches and fever alongside the characteristic pink-red rash with a sandpaper-like texture, which begins around the stomach area but can quickly spread to other parts of the body. Skin on the face can redden and look like sunburn. Professor Walker […]