The county council have shared a list of the signs to spot scarlet fever in children.

Scarlet fever is a contagious bacterial infection that causes flu-like symptoms and a rash that feels rough. It mostly affects young children

The county council shared the information in a Twitter thread on May 5.

The thread said: "Scarlet fever is usually a mild illness but can be serious if left untreated. It's highly contagious and mostly affects young children.

"The first signs of scarlet fever are flu-like symptoms, such as high temperature, sore throat and swollen neck glands. 

"A bumpy, rough feeling rash usually appears after 12 to 48 hours on the chest and tummy, which then spreads.

"If you think your child is showing signs of scarlet fever it's important to contact your local GP or NHS 111. Stay away from nursery, school or work for 24 hours after taking the 1st dose of antibiotics.

"Relieving symptoms of scarlet fever include drinking cool liquids, eating soft foods if you have a sore throat, taking painkillers like paracetamol to bring down a high temp and using calamine lotion or antihistamine tablets to ease itching."

The thread also warned not to give aspirin to those under the age of 16.

Worcestershire County Council is sharing the information as part of a UK health Security Campaign raising awareness of the infection.

It is not currently known if Worcestershire has particularly high numbers of scarlet fever.

We have contacted the UK Health Security Agency for comment.