How can scarlet fever produce a red rash?

Scarlet fever is caused by the same type of bacteria that cause strep throat. In scarlet fever, the bacteria release a toxin that produces the rash and red tongue. The infection spreads from person to person via droplets expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes. read more

Scarlet fever, also known as scarlatina, is an infection that can develop in people who have strep throat. It’s characterized by a bright red rash on the body, usually accompanied by a high fever and sore throat. The same bacteria that causes strep throat also causes scarlet fever. read more

In scarlet fever, the bacteria release a toxin that produces the rash and red tongue. The infection spreads from person to person via droplets expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The incubation period — the time between exposure and illness — is usually two to four days. read more