From the Guidelines
Yes, a 43-year-old can develop scarlet fever, although it is more commonly seen in children. Scarlet fever is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria, which can affect individuals of any age 1. The treatment for scarlet fever typically involves a 10-day course of oral antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, to prevent complications and reduce the risk of transmission 1.
Key Considerations
- For those with penicillin allergies, alternative antibiotics like clindamycin, azithromycin, or clarithromycin may be prescribed.
- It is essential to complete the full antibiotic course, even if symptoms improve quickly, to ensure the infection is fully cleared and to prevent potential complications.
- While recovering, it is recommended to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and discomfort.
- Gargling with warm salt water can help relieve sore throat symptoms.
Preventing Transmission
- Scarlet fever is contagious, so it is crucial to avoid close contact with others until at least 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment 1.
- In cases of outbreaks, especially in settings like schools or institutions, throat cultures may be performed to identify and treat individuals with group A streptococcal infections 1.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
- If symptoms worsen or do not improve after 48 hours of antibiotic treatment, it is essential to contact a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
From the FDA Drug Label
The usual dosage recommendations for adults and children 12 years and over are as follows: Streptococcal infections - mild to moderately severe - of the upper respiratory tract and including scarlet fever and erysipelas: 125 mg to 250 mg (200,000 to 400,000 units) every 6 to 8 hours for 10 days The answer to whether a 43-year-old can develop scarlet fever is yes, as the drug label mentions dosage recommendations for adults with scarlet fever.
- The treatment for scarlet fever in a 43-year-old would be penicillin (PO) with a dosage of 125 mg to 250 mg every 6 to 8 hours for 10 days 2.
From the Research
Scarlet Fever in Adults
- Scarlet fever is essentially a childhood disease, although it may occur in all ages 3.
- A 43-year-old can develop scarlet fever, as it is not exclusive to children 3, 4.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
- The disease is characterized by a rash that usually accompanies a sore throat and flushed cheeks 4.
- A high degree of suspicion related to airway involvement is of utmost importance in an emergency room setting, especially in adult patients with acute involvement of the airway 3.
- Symptoms may be attributed to viral infection, leading to delayed diagnosis, especially among older children and adults presenting with sore throat 5.
Treatment
- Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in preventing the spread of infection and progression to life-threatening complications 3, 6.
- A prescription of a suitable antibiotic, such as phenoxymethylpenicillin (Penicillin V), should be made immediately to reduce the risk of complications and the spread of infection 6.
- National guidance recommends treating people with scarlet fever with antibiotics regardless of severity of illness to speed recovery, reduce the length of time the infection is contagious, and reduce the risk of complications 7.