Definition of scarlet fever in US English:
scarlet fever
nounˈˌskɑrlət ˈfivərˈˌskärlət ˈfēvər
An infectious bacterial disease affecting especially children, and causing fever and a scarlet rash. It is caused by streptococci.
Example sentencesExamples
- In 1936 an outbreak of scarlet fever and diphtheria led to many Croydon residents being hospitalised for lengthy periods.
- After childhood bouts with scarlet fever and pneumonia, she decided to become a nurse.
- If the bacteria spreads to a wound it can cause more serious illnesses including scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, pneumonia, and occasionally it can be life threatening.
- Group A streptococci also produce toxins that can cause circulatory collapse in streptococcal toxic shock syndrome or fever and a rash in scarlet fever.
- Passengers were inspected for contagious diseases such as small pox, yellow fever, scarlet fever, and measles.