Strep throat can bring scarlet fever.

A throat infection caused by streptococci bacteria - often referred to as strep throat - can trigger severe illness. When a characteristic skin rash accompanies strep throat, the illness is called scarlet fever.

Most people contract scarlet fever by being exposed to someone with a streptococcal infection. The bacteria begin to grow in the throat, on the tonsils, or in the area where the tonsils once were if they have been removed. Three to five days after exposure to the bacteria, physical signs of sore throat as well as generalized aches and pains appear. Fever as high as 104-106 [degrees] F may be present. It is not uncommon for a person to suffer from nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cough, headache, runny nose, and weakness quite often are present.

The infected person's throat will be "boiled-lobster" fed and many have white or off-white spots in the back of the throat and on the tonsils. The mucous membranes on the sides of the mouth may appear red and swollen with milk-white patches. The infected person also will note swollen lymph glands around the jaw and neck. These nodes usually are tender to manipulation and can be found at the angle of the jaw.

A fine, red "sandpaper like" rash appears on the...