Prevalence of scarlet fever on the rise across England

There has been a rise in the number of cases of scarlet fever among people in England, according to new government data.

A report from Public Health England has indicated that 1,319 new cases were picked up between March 21st and 27th, representing the highest weekly total since records began in 1982.

It means that 10,570 cases of scarlet fever have now been reported since the season began in September 2015, marking the third season in a row in which elevated scarlet fever activity has been noted.

This seasonal illness is generally treated with antibiotics, with the rate of transmission usually peaking at this time of year. It predominantly affects the elderly, although the current spread has struck a higher amount of young adults and children than was the case last year.

Dr Theresa Lamagni, Public Health England's head of streptococcal infection surveillance, said: "While we hope that the Easter school break will assist in slowing down transmission of the bacteria causing scarlet fever, we cannot assume or rely on this being the case."